Zohran Mamdani Pledges to Embrace Muslim Identity Amid Campaign Attacks

New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani has vowed to more openly embrace his Muslim identity following recent political attacks he described as racist and unfounded. The announcement was made outside a Bronx mosque on Friday, as the campaign enters its final stretch.

Mamdani spoke emotionally about the challenges faced by Muslim New Yorkers, recalling personal experiences such as his aunt avoiding the subway after 9/11 due to safety concerns while wearing a headscarf. He also cited advice from family members to keep his faith private—a common precaution for many in the city.

The candidate directly linked these experiences to recent rhetoric from political opponents, including former Governor Andrew Cuomo, Curtis Sliwa, and Eric Adams. Mamdani said that some of their statements perpetuate harmful stereotypes about Muslims.

Cuomo has recently escalated his criticism of Mamdani, particularly regarding the candidate’s stance on Israel and Gaza. The controversy intensified when Cuomo appeared to agree with a conservative radio host’s inflammatory suggestion that Mamdani might support another 9/11 attack.

Mamdani’s pledge to openly embrace his faith underscores the broader conversation about religious tolerance, representation, and the challenges Muslim Americans face in public life.