Rep. Laura Gillen, a New York House Democrat, has voiced strong criticism of Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic mayoral candidate for New York City, calling him a ‘socialist’ and ‘too extreme to lead.’ Gillen accused Mamdani of promoting unachievable promises and higher taxes, which she claims are not what New York needs. She also highlighted Mamdani’s campaign for defunding the police and his alleged antisemitic remarks, which she said contribute to rising hate in the city.
Mamdani’s victory in the first round of the ranked choice voting primary was a surprise, as he outpaced former Gov. Andrew Cuomo with 43.5% of the vote. However, Gillen and Rep. Tom Suozzi, another moderate Democratic House member, expressed concerns about Mamdani’s approach and policies, despite the party leaders’ endorsement. While Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries praised his campaign, Gillen and Suozzi are among the few who have spoken out against him.
The political landscape is becoming increasingly polarized as the New York Democratic Party’s internal disagreements come to the forefront. The criticism from Gillen and Suozzi is significant, as they represent a faction within the party that is uneasy with Mamdani’s progressive platform. The situation is also being used by Republicans as an opportunity to criticize the party’s direction, as highlighted in a Fox News article that has received attention.
Mamdani’s campaign, which includes proposals for city-owned grocery stores, aligns with his self-proclaimed identity as a democratic socialist. However, his opposition from within the party underscores the growing divide over progressive policies and their impact on the city’s future. The outcome of the primary is crucial, as it will shape the city’s political direction and influence its leadership moving forward.