On December 30, 2025, New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani made waves by appointing Ramzi Kassem as the city’s chief counsel. This decision immediately sparked concern among conservative circles due to Kassem’s controversial history. As a CUNY law professor and former Biden administration immigration advisor, he is known for his work with radical figures, including Khalid al-Darbi, a Guantanamo detainee linked to al-Qaeda.
In his announcement, Mamdani highlighted Kassem’s civil rights expertise, stating, “I will turn to Ramzi for his remarkable experience and his commitment to defending those too often abandoned by our legal system.” This positioning of Kassem as a champion for the marginalized underscores Mamdani’s broader vision for New York City—one where every resident feels heard, particularly those who traditionally feel overlooked. “City Hall will be stronger with him in it,” Mamdani declared, aiming to build a more prosperous city for all.
Kassem himself commented on the role with a sense of duty, stating, “I consider it a call of duty to serve the city that I’ve called home, the city that embraced me.” His personal narrative adds emotional weight to his appointment, suggesting a deep connection to the city he views as his refuge after growing up in war-torn and authoritarian regimes. His words, “This is an opportunity for me to repay that debt,” signal a desire to give back to a place that transformed his life.
However, the appointment did not come without criticism. Political analyst Ken Frydman expressed skepticism, asserting that while Kassem’s clients are entitled to legal representation, that doesn’t mean every choice he made was justifiable. This skepticism reflects a growing concern about the implications of Kassem’s affiliations and how this might influence policy decisions moving forward.
Mamdani’s comments further emphasize his dedication to the rule of law, portraying it as foundational to good governance. He stated, “With Steve Banks and Ramzi Kassem as my Corporations and Chief Counsel, our City will not only operate in accordance with the law, but will understand and employ it as a critical tool in the fight for working people and to protect their safety and fundamental freedoms.” This rhetoric positions Mamdani as an advocate for the working class, a theme consistent with his self-identification as a socialist.
The reaction to Kassem’s appointment serves as a reflection of the contentious political landscape in which Mamdani operates. His commitment to appointing controversial figures suggests a willingness to challenge the status quo and align himself with those who may have once been seen as outside the mainstream. As he forges ahead with his plans for the city, how this appointment will ultimately play out remains to be seen, but it certainly sets the stage for a politically charged tenure in office.
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