Skepticism Surrounds Mamdani’s Shift in Language

New Yorkers are expressing skepticism towards Democratic mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani after he appeared to distance himself from the controversial phrase “globalize the intifada.” Previously, Mamdani had refrained from condemning the phrase, which many interpret as a call for violence against Jewish people. During a meeting with city business leaders at Rockefeller Center, Mamdani stated he would not use the phrase and would discourage others from doing so. He acknowledged that while some use it to express solidarity with Palestinians, others view it as antisemitic.

Mamdani’s Previous Stance and Recent Developments

Throughout his campaign for the Democratic mayoral nomination, Mamdani avoided condemning language associated with intifada. In a June interview on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” he expressed concerns about policing language, likening it to actions taken by the president against free speech. However, after securing the Democratic nomination, Mamdani seems to be reconsidering his stance.

Reactions from Political Figures

Joe Borelli, a former Republican New York City Council member, expressed doubt about Mamdani’s sincerity in changing his position post-primary victory. Rory Lancman, a Democrat and former city councilmember, emphasized that a potential mayor must unequivocally repudiate calls for intifada as morally unacceptable. Christopher Hahn, a Democratic strategist, noted that Mamdani needs to clarify his stance on antisemitism to avoid being labeled as anti-Semitic by opponents.

Pressure from Democratic Leaders

Prominent Democrats like Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand and House Minority Leader Rep. Hakeem Jeffries have urged Mamdani to denounce the phrase “globalize the intifada.” Gillibrand highlighted that many perceive it as a call for violence against Jews, while Jeffries stressed the need for Mamdani to address rising antisemitism in New York City.

Election Context

Zohran Mamdani is challenging current Mayor Eric Adams and former Governor Andrew Cuomo in the upcoming election. Adams is running for re-election as an independent, while Cuomo also seeks office independently after losing the Democratic Primary to Mamdani. Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa is also in the race.