House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries met with New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani but did not endorse him, despite the candidate’s support from progressive figures like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Bernie Sanders. Jeffries called the meeting ‘constructive’ but did not commit to an endorsement, leaving Mamdani without a top party endorsement despite his win in the Democratic primary.
Mamdani, a socialist candidate endorsed by progressive Democrats like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, has yet to secure support from top party leaders, including Jeffries and Sen. Chuck Schumer. While the meeting was described as ‘constructive,’ the lack of an endorsement has raised questions about the leadership’s stance on Mamdani’s candidacy. Although Mamdani won the Democratic primary comfortably over former Governor Andrew Cuomo, his position on Israel and socialist policies have drawn significant criticism and controversy. The political dynamics in New York City continue to evolve as Mamdani faces off against independent candidates and Republican contender Curtis Sliwa in the upcoming November election.
Mamdani’s support from progressive Democrats like Ocasio-Cortez and Sen. Bernie Sanders has bolstered his campaign, but the absence of endorsements from top party leaders such as Jeffries and Schumer highlights the internal divisions within the Democratic Party. The meeting between Jeffries and Mamdani took place in New York City, with discussions centered on affordability, public safety, and the importance of reclaiming the House in 2026. Despite the initial lukewarm response, the two leaders expressed intent to reconvene with other members of the New York City congressional delegation and community leaders, indicating ongoing engagement.
The controversy surrounding Mamdani’s stance on Israel has intensified, with some Jewish leaders warning of a potential mass exodus due to concerns over his views. While Mamdani has recently distanced himself from the phrase ‘globalize the intifada,’ his earlier reluctance to condemn the phrase has fueled criticism. The political landscape is becoming increasingly polarized, with Mamdani’s candidacy serving as a flashpoint in the broader debate over identity, policy, and the future of the Democratic Party. As the November election approaches, the race for New York City mayor remains a focal point for national politics, with the outcome potentially shaping the political dynamics of the region and beyond.