Zohran Mamdani’s election as mayor of New York City marks a political earthquake for America’s largest Jewish community, thrusting over one million Jewish New Yorkers into uncharted territory.
At his victory celebration, Mamdani framed his win as a “mandate for a new kind of politics.” But for much of the city’s Jewish mainstream, the win brings deep anxiety: Mamdani is the first avowed anti-Zionist to lead the city, and many fear his rhetoric may embolden hostility toward pro-Israel Jews.
Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove warned last month that Mamdani “poses a danger to the security of the New York Jewish community,” a concern echoed by more than 1,000 rabbis nationwide. Major Jewish organizations, including the ADL and UJA-Federation, withheld congratulations and pledged to closely monitor his policies.
Mamdani insists he opposes antisemitism and has met with Jewish leaders privately. But his critics note his defense of slogans like “globalize the intifada,” refusal to recognize Israel’s right to exist as a Jewish state, support for BDS, and past praise of activists convicted of aiding Hamas.
His rival, Andrew Cuomo, won more than 60% of the Jewish vote — over 96% in some Orthodox districts.
Despite his sweeping promises, Mamdani’s actual policy power may be limited. Previous legislation he supported to penalize charities linked to Israeli settlements failed to advance, though it stirred widespread alarm.
For now, Jewish leaders say they will work with the new mayor while remaining vigilant. The city enters a new and uncertain era.
