Zohran Mamdani’s projected win in New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary has triggered a wave of Islamophobic rhetoric from conservative commentators and politicians. The 33-year-old Muslim assemblyman defeated former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who conceded before ranked-choice votes were fully counted. Mamdani received 4.55 percent of first-place votes to Cuomo’s 36.3 percent.
Right-wing figures, including Laura Loomer and Charlie Kirk, have made baseless claims linking Mamdani to terrorism. Loomer warned of “9/11 2.0” and called Mamdani a “Communist,” while Kirk invoked the 2001 attacks to suggest a Muslim mayor would endanger the city. Their remarks have drawn bipartisan criticism, with some conservatives denouncing the Islamophobia.
Mamdani, born in Uganda and the son of a filmmaker and a professor, campaigned on progressive policies such as rent freezes, free childcare, and free buses. He has been a vocal critic of Israel’s actions in Gaza, which he describes as genocide, and has faced accusations of antisemitism over his use of the phrase “globalize the Intifada.” He has stated he opposes any incitement to violence.
Republican Congresswoman Elise Stefanik also criticised Mamdani, calling him a “terrorist sympathiser.” The controversy highlights the deep divisions over Mamdani’s candidacy as he prepares to face incumbent Eric Adams, who is running as an independent, in the general election.
