As early voting begins in New York’s mayoral race, Democratic contender Zohran Mamdani has pledged to more openly embrace his Muslim identity despite what he describes as “racist and unfounded” criticism from his opponents.
Speaking at the Islamic Cultural Center of the Bronx on Friday, Mamdani said it was a step he had long hesitated to take but now feels is necessary.
“To be Muslim in New York is to expect indignity,” he said. “But indignity does not make us unique. Many New Yorkers face it. What separates us is how we tolerate it.”Mamdani, who was born in Uganda, has faced pushback for his stance on Israel.
His campaign gained new momentum after receiving the endorsement of House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries just as early voting opened.
His unexpected victory in the Democratic primary pushed former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo to enter the race as an independent.
As the election nears, both Cuomo and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa have intensified their attacks on the progressive candidate.
Cuomo made a controversial remark suggesting Mamdani would “cheer another 9/11 attack,” while Sliwa falsely labeled him a supporter of “global jihad.”
Despite the rhetoric, recent polls show Mamdani maintaining a strong lead over Cuomo by double digits heading into early voting.
