In a surprising turn of events, Zohran Mamdani, the socialist Democratic nominee for New York City mayor, has refrained from endorsing Democratic New York Governor Kathy Hochul for her 2026 reelection.
This comes despite Governor Hochul's recent endorsement of Mamdani's mayoral campaign.
As reported by the Daily Caller, Mamdani's decision to withhold his endorsement was revealed during a press interaction. When questioned about his stance on Governor Hochul's reelection, Mamdani stated that his focus would remain on the upcoming November elections.
"And Im excited to have the governors support in that fight for November as we make it clear that we can put the days of City Hall and Albany being at war in the past," he said.
Governor Hochul's endorsement of Mamdani is noteworthy, especially considering that prominent Democratic leaders like House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer have yet to officially back the socialist Democrat. In her op-ed for The New York Times, Hochul acknowledged their disagreements but also emphasized their shared priorities on issues such as city safety, affordability, and the rise of antisemitism.
Hochul wrote, In the past few months, Ive had frank conversations with him. Weve had our disagreements. But in our conversations, I heard a leader who shares my commitment to a New York where children can grow up safe in their neighborhoods and where opportunity is within reach for every family. I heard a leader who is focused on making New York City affordable a goal I enthusiastically support.
She further added, I didnt leave my conversations with Mr. Mamdani aligned with him on every issue. But I am confident that he has the courage, urgency, and optimism New York City needs to lead it through the challenges of this moment.
Mamdani's campaign has been marked by controversial proposals such as raising the minimum wage to $30, initiating government-run grocery stores, and imposing higher taxes on wealthier and predominantly white neighborhoods. These proposals have raised eyebrows among Republicans and have reportedly led some city business owners to contemplate relocating if Mamdani assumes office.
Mamdani's nomination has also been met with criticism from both Democrats and Republicans over his proposed plans for the city, his previous anti-police statements, and his refusal to denounce the phrase globalize the intifada.
In July, Mamdani evaded a reporter's question about whether he regretted making several anti-police statements in 2020 and his repeated calls for the NYPD to be defunded following the death of George Floyd. He justified his statements as expressions of "frustration" in the wake of Floyd's death and argued that "they need not choose between the two."
Mamdani also faced backlash for refusing to denounce the phrases globalize the intifada and From the river to the sea during an interview on The Bulwark. He defended his stance by stating that while it isnt the language he uses, his beliefs are grounded in universal human rights.
However, on September 7, Mamdani announced that he would now discourage the use of the phrase globalize the intifada, following meetings with Jewish leaders and other members of the New York City community, according to Fox News.
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