Zohran Mamdani’s victory in the New York City Democratic primary has sent a significant signal within the Jewish community. Contrary to expectations, many Jewish New Yorkers overwhelmingly supported him in the election.
Mamdani’s campaign was built on a platform of inclusivity and human rights for all individuals, regardless of their background or identity. His organization, Jewish Voice for Peace Action, endorsed his candidacy from the start and engaged in extensive outreach efforts, knocking on over 80,000 doors and making hundreds of thousands of calls.
In contrast, his opponent Andrew Cuomo employed divisive tactics, including Islamophobic fear-mongering and false accusations of antisemitism, in an attempt to alienate Jewish voters. However, these efforts were met with widespread criticism and ultimately failed to sway many members of the community.
A recent poll from last November showed that 61% of Jews support halting US weapons shipments to Israel due to concerns over genocide and apartheid. This shift in opinion reflects a growing recognition within the Jewish community that their elected representatives should prioritize human rights and dignity over unwavering support for Israel’s policies.
Mamdani has vowed to work towards creating a New York City where everyone can thrive, regardless of their background or identity. His commitment to progressive values and his willingness to listen to diverse perspectives have resonated deeply with many Jewish voters.
While some critics may express concerns about certain aspects of Mamdani’s platform, including his stance on Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS), it is clear that he has captured the hearts and minds of many within the Jewish community. As one supporter noted, “Zohran’s message of inclusivity and human rights feels like a breath of fresh air in our city.”
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2025/jul/16/jewish-new-yorkers-zohran-mamdani