On September 22, 2023, Zohran Mamdani attended a protest in New York City aimed at advocating for Israeli democracy, coinciding with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s address to the United Nations General Assembly. This event highlighted the complexities of the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict and exposed various tensions within the Jewish community in New York.
Mamdani, a new political star, has dazzled audiences with his youthful starpower. He truly wants to connect people across divides to audiences both large and small. His charisma during the protest and engagement with activists on the ground quickly energized the troops. They cheered at every mention of his name when they demanded an arms embargo on Israel and freedom and justice for a free Palestine. Yet his starts-and-stops approach to highly politicized issues, even like climate or transportation funding, has unsurprisingly divided constituents.
In the past, Mamdani has advocated for defunding the New York Police Department—a position he now says he’s reversed his support on. His outreach strategy has changed completely. Through imaginative door-to-door campaigning and a massive phone brigade, he’s won over 50% of the vote. Despite this support, Mamdani’s campaign is still under the microscope, especially for its handling of inflammatory pro-Palestinian rhetoric.
On September 10, Mamdani delivered these remarks during the Mazals Gala organized by Jews for Racial and Economic Justice. His comments at the gala made it even more clear why he is one of social justice’s and equality’s true champions. Many of the attendees seemed disappointed when he did not go on to condemn in strong terms pro-Palestinian speech that he found to be hateful. One Brooklyn resident expressed their disappointment after listening to him speak at their synagogue.
Mamdani’s outreach comes at a time of great change in the community. His campaign does not need a majority of the Jewish vote—estimated at about 15% of New York City’s electorate—to succeed in the upcoming election on November 4. Such tactical maneuvering can allow him to play the identity politics game, while being able to look broadly past the issues affecting us all.
The controversy surrounding Mamdani escalated when he characterized Israel’s actions as genocide and demanded Netanyahu’s arrest should he travel to New York in compliance with an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant. His stated bases for signing up to defend Netanyahu at the ICC have drawn incredulity and derision.
Mamdani’s sophisticated approach to and understanding of international law is a thread running through the cloth of all his advocacy. He often states, “I would not recognize any state’s right to exist with a system of hierarchy on the basis of race or religion,” expressing a belief that aligns with his advocacy for equal rights globally. His assertion that “part of that is because I’m an American who believes in the importance of equal rights being enshrined in every single country” resonates with supporters who seek a balanced approach to activism and governance.
As tensions have grown within the Jewish community around Mamdani’s position, Jewish leaders have publicly expressed alarm at his appointment. Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove openly stated, “To be clear, unequivocal, and on the record: I believe Zohran Mamdani poses a danger to the New York Jewish community.” This resistance stems from a concern—perhaps even a fear—that Mamdani’s rhetoric will widen the gulf, already painfully clear, between us.
Some have pointed out the opportunity for welcome, positive discussion. Rachel Timoner remarked, “It was deeply respectful on all sides. I think that people felt heard and that people listened.” This is a hopeful perspective in that, even with opposing views, there is still a chance for mutual understanding to be cultivated through honest dialogue.
Mamdani’s skill in threading these conversations will be key as he further defines his political identity. His defenders insist that his experience is proof of a willingness to tackle complicated issues instead of dodging them. Critics remain vigilant, asserting that his approach may alienate segments of the community who feel marginalized by his rhetoric.
With the March 2023 election date drawing ever closer, Mamdani’s campaign has an uphill battle ahead, but one filled with great potential. The evolving dynamics of New York’s political landscape will undoubtedly shape the discourse as he seeks to connect with voters while confronting contentious topics head-on.