Controversy Surrounds Candidate Over Insensitive Remarks and Past Positions

A recently resurfaced video has ignited criticism of a New York City mayoral hopeful for making an offensive joke involving the term “Zionist.” During a speech before the Democratic Socialists of America in 2023, the candidate, Zohran Mamdani, jokingly told supporters, “If you don’t clap for El-Yateem, you’re a Zionist,” referring to Palestinian community organizer Khader El-Yateem. Mamdani then dismissed his comment as a joke, saying, “It’s a joke, you don’t have to clap.”

The remark drew immediate backlash from many, with critics emphasizing that turning “Zionist” into a slur reflects a disturbing trend of antisemitism. Prominent voices condemned Mamdani, including Blake Flayton, who stated, “The normalization of using ‘Zionist’ as an insult is one of the most significant antisemitic developments of the 21st century.” Flayton pointed out the gravity of Mamdani’s potential ascendancy to mayor, warning about the importance of addressing these issues.

Others argued Mamdani’s past positions suggest he has long opposed Israel’s right to self-determination. Todd Richman of Democratic Majority for Israel dismissed Mamdani’s defenses, asserting, “He has been promoting an anti-Zionist agenda since college. Now, suddenly, he claims to be different?”

Joseph Potasnik of the New York Board of Rabbis emphasized that Mamdani must clarify his past statements, especially considering New York City’s large Jewish population, most of whom support Israel. Potasnik remarked, “He needs to address the controversial comments he’s made over the years.”

Mamdani has publicly supported the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement and has led pro-Palestinian protests, chanting “BDS!” and criticizing officials who visit Israel. Despite his recent electoral victory, Mamdani has been actively trying to broaden his support base by engaging with business leaders, party officials, and Jewish community members.

He has also avoided condemning the phrase “globalize the intifada,” which has sparked further controversy. After meetings with Jewish officials, he stated he now discourages use of the phrase.

Additionally, Mamdani faced previous criticism for comments perceived as defending al-Qaeda operative Anwar al-Awlaki and blaming U.S. policies for turning him into a terrorist in 2015 tweets.