Vance Urges Mamdani to Be Grateful Instead of Criticizing the US
J.D. Vance Criticizes NYC Mayoral Frontrunner Zohran Mamdani for Lack of Gratitude
The Vice President, JD Vance, has voiced criticism of Zohran Mamdani, the leading candidate for New York City’s Democratic mayoral race, suggesting he should show more appreciation for the United States instead of focusing solely on its flaws.
During an interview with Fox News, Vance referenced his late grandmother, who was a lifelong Democrat and expressed gratitude for America’s opportunities. Vance questioned whether Mamdani, born in Uganda to Indian parents and now a New York Assembly member, feels similar appreciation.
“Does Mamdani, when you hear him speak — is this a man who feels gratitude for the United States of America? Is this a man who feels grateful for all of the opportunities, the incredible bounty of this country?” Vance asked on “The Will Cain Show.”
He elaborated that Mamdani has had a good life in America and would benefit from acknowledging that, instead of criticizing the nation constantly. Vance contrasted Mamdani’s attitude with that of his grandmother, who, despite her Democratic ties, appreciated America’s advantages.
Criticism Extends to Political Figures
Vance also criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for seeming ungrateful during an Oval Office visit, implying a disrespect for US support. Additionally, he highlighted the contrast between Mamdani’s perspective and that of his grandmother, suggesting she would be surprised by Mamdani’s rise.
Mamdani, 33, moved to New York from Uganda at age 7. He graduated from Columbia University in 2014—describing himself as Asian and African American on his application—and entered politics with limited prior work experience.
He is known for his strongly socialist views, once advocating for the “seizing of the means of production,” aligning with Communist ideas, and criticizing capitalism and US foreign policy on the campaign trail.
Vance speculated that Mamdani’s grandmother, Bonnie Blanton Vance, would dismiss his political ascent as disconnected from traditional Democratic values, emphasizing that she would view his stance as ungrateful for the country’s opportunities.