On November 4, 2025, Zohran Mamdani emerged as Mayor of New York City, claiming victory over independent candidate Andrew Cuomo amidst a split in the Jewish vote. His election has heightened scrutiny regarding his past political activism and positions that have raised alarms among Jewish communities, especially given the recent spike in antisemitic incidents across the city.
Mamdani addressed these concerns shortly after his win, asserting, “I care deeply about Jewish safety, and I look forward to rooting out antisemitism across the five boroughs and protecting Jewish New Yorkers—and every New Yorker who calls the city home.” However, his assurances have not assuaged fears. Prominent organizations such as the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and the American Jewish Committee (AJC) remain skeptical, citing his support for the BDS movement—an initiative aimed at boycotting Israel—as a hallmark of his ambivalence toward Jewish security.
The timing of his election coincides with a bleak landscape for Jewish safety in New York. Reports indicate that antisemitic hate crimes have eclipsed half of all hate crimes reported to the NYPD since 2021. Following a catastrophic attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023, incidents of hate against Jewish individuals surged alarmingly. Jewish leaders are questioning whether Mamdani will translate his rhetoric into actionable policies that prioritize their safety.
Concerns have been amplified by recent protests that have taken place in front of Jewish institutions. A demonstration last month outside Park East Synagogue saw phrases like “globalize the intifada” being chanted. Rabbi Marc Schneier described the situation as troubling, emphasizing that allowing such protests directly outside a synagogue risks the safety of community members. A UJA-Federation spokesperson echoed this, denouncing the slogans as incitements to violence rather than mere political statements.
Mamdani’s administration will likely grapple with balancing progressive ideals while addressing the justified fears of Jewish residents. His press secretary responded to backlash by declaring that every New Yorker should have the right to attend places of worship freely and without intimidation—a sentiment that opens a dialogue about the use of religious spaces for political protest. However, the implicit peril faced by those congregating in these spaces cannot be understated.
While supporters point to Mamdani’s policies on housing and healthcare as evidence of his commitment to social justice, critics argue that his prior remarks and affiliations suggest a troubling indifference towards persistent threats facing the Jewish community.
The electoral divide among Jewish voters is stark: around 64% opted for Cuomo, while only 33% supported Mamdani, with the balance going to less prominent candidates. Younger Jewish voters apparently favored Mamdani’s progressive policies, yet older constituents remain focused on his positions related to Israel and terrorism, expressing concern over his past reluctance to explicitly denounce groups like Hamas.
Senator Chuck Schumer, after speaking with Mamdani post-election, described their conversation as “very, very good.” Still, the subtlety of Schumer’s words suggests that support may depend on Mamdani’s actions moving forward, particularly concerning issues of Jewish safety and community trust.
In response to rising concerns, the ADL has launched a “Mamdani Monitor,” aiming to keep an eye on actions that may signal an increase or decrease in antisemitism under his leadership. The organization’s CEO, Jonathan Greenblatt, expects Mamdani to unequivocally oppose antisemitism in all forms—a heavy expectation given his previous affiliations.
Mamdani has begun outreach efforts, attending High Holiday services and engaging Jewish residents directly. “I look forward to being the mayor for every person that calls this city home—that includes the Jewish New Yorkers that voted for our campaign and those that didn’t,” he asserted. This outreach is a positive step but is no substitute for firm policy changes that address the fears expressed by many.
The Combat Antisemitism Movement (CAM) raised alarms through warnings about Mamdani’s track record, suggesting his views might facilitate an environment where antisemitism could proliferate unchecked. CAM criticized Mamdani for failing to acknowledge language that historically aligns with antisemitic sentiment, indicating he may be too hesitant to confront the serious implications of his prior positions.
As voters like Alana Zeitchik reflect on their feelings toward the new mayor, many share a desire for his success yet note a lack of trust earned during the campaign. The demand for clear policy and leadership on combating hate crimes is palpable. Mamdani has proposed plans to quadruple funding to fight hate-related violence citywide—an admirable start, but action is what is truly needed, not just words.
As his administration begins, the spotlight will be on Mamdani to affirm policies that protect the safety and identity of Jewish New Yorkers, all while navigating the pressures of his political base. The stakes could not be higher, as the future of community safety rests heavily on his choices.
Voices from all corners, from city officials to everyday residents, will be closely monitoring Mamdani’s leadership. As the AJC pointedly stated, “We will hold all elected officials, including Mayor-elect Mamdani, fully accountable.” The coming months will undoubtedly be a litmus test for his commitment to the city’s diverse communities and the challenge of upholding their safety in a time of increasing tensions.
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