Concern Over Foreign Donations in NYC Mayoral Campaign

As New York City approaches Election Day, the Coolidge-Reagan Foundation—a group focused on campaign finance—has lodged two criminal complaints against Zoran Mamdani, a Democratic mayoral candidate. He stands accused of accepting illegal contributions from foreign donors. However, Mamdani’s campaign insists that any issues related to financial contributions have been resolved.

A recent review of Mamdani’s financial reports revealed nearly $13,000 from around 170 donors located outside the U.S. This raises compliance concerns, as only U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents are permitted to contribute to U.S. political campaigns.

Dan Bakker, president of the Coolidge-Reagan Foundation and a campaign finance expert, stated, “These are not isolated incidents or administrative errors. This is a continuing pattern of foreign funding in the New York City mayoral race, violating both federal law and local campaign finance rules. The Mamdani campaign had been warned for months but took no meaningful action to rectify the situation.”

In response, Mamdani’s team contended that 31 of the 170 donors proved their citizenship or permanent residency, thus deemed acceptable by the Campaign Finance Commission. They also noted that the remaining 139 donations were refunded.

Mamdani’s Plans for Defense Funding for Immigrants

The Coolidge-Reagan Foundation forwarded a criminal referral to the U.S. Department of Justice and the Manhattan District Attorney’s office, emphasizing potential violations of election campaign laws. Under these laws, it is illegal to accept contributions from foreign nationals in any election level.

State officials noted that while foreign nationals are ineligible to donate, it is possible that some of Mamdani’s contributions came from U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents living abroad. Nonetheless, Bakker emphasized, “The law clearly states that foreigners cannot participate in U.S. elections, including donations. Yet, Mamdani’s campaign accepted funds from individuals overseas.” He described these actions as detrimental to the democratic process.

The formal letters from the Justice Department and Manhattan District Attorney underline possible violations of federal and state election laws. Sean McCutcheon, president of the Foundation, remarked, “Foreign money in U.S. elections is a severe violation and a threat to our autonomy. Every dollar that flows from abroad dilutes the voice of legitimate American voters. An investigation is necessary, and those responsible must be held accountable.”

Details revealed by a review indicate that Mamdani’s campaign raised approximately $13,000 from contributors with overseas addresses—this includes a $500 donation from his mother-in-law in Dubai, which was returned shortly after. According to filings, 91 donations totaling $5,723.50 were refunded as of mid-October.

The New York Post initially reported these overseas donations. Mamdani’s camp had previously stated their intention to refund any non-compliant contributions.

However, Bakker argued that simply returning questionable donations doesn’t resolve the violation. He urged that Mamdani should be investigated and potentially prosecuted.

Bakker acknowledged that some donations might indeed be from U.S. citizens abroad but maintained that the overall circumstances raise concerns about legality.

“Despite being aware of this issue, it seems like no significant steps were taken to prevent the acceptance of foreign contributions throughout 2025,” he claimed.

In a comment, Mamdani’s campaign spokeswoman emphasized that donations from U.S. citizens abroad are permissible under both federal and local laws. She stated that the campaign has employed a thorough compliance process to verify donors’ eligibility and will refund any determined inadmissible donations promptly.