Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, a potential 2028 Democratic presidential candidate, has joined fellow Democrats in criticizing Zohran Mamdani, the progressive candidate for mayor of New York, for failing to condemn antisemitic rhetoric. The remarks are the latest sign that the NYC mayoral candidate hasn’t won over the party establishment. Mamdani, who is running to unseat Mayor Eric Adams, has faced mounting pressure from within the party for not speaking out against what is described as “blatantly antisemitic” rhetoric. His position has sparked internal debates, with some Democrats hesitant to fully support him due to his past comments on Israel.
In an interview with Jewish Insider, Shapiro expressed his disappointment with Mamdani’s stance, emphasizing the importance of moral clarity in addressing antisemitism. He criticized the candidate for failing to condemn rhetoric that many within the party view as harmful. Shapiro’s comments add to the growing unease among Democrats about Mamdani’s approach, especially as the party looks to balance progressive ideals with the need to address sensitive issues. This pressure has intensified as the mayoral race gains momentum, with Mamdani’s campaign facing scrutiny over his refusal to distance himself from anti-Israel rhetoric.
Some Democrats have been hesitant to fully embrace Mamdani’s campaign, particularly due to his anti-Israel rhetoric and the broader implications for the party’s unity. This has led to calls for the Democratic establishment to reconsider their support for the candidate, with elected officials from battleground districts distancing themselves from his message. Despite this, Shapiro’s comments were not entirely negative, as he acknowledged Mamdani’s efforts to energize New Yorkers and run an engaging campaign.
Mamdani’s challenges extend beyond antisemitism. His advocacy for socialist policies, such as free public transportation and city-owned grocery stores, has drawn criticism from both within and outside the party. Additionally, his refusal to condemn the use of the phrase “globalize the intifada”—a slogan associated with Palestinian resistance—has raised eyebrows. These issues have further complicated his position within the Democratic Party, as key figures like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear weigh the potential lessons from his primary win.
The New York mayoral race is not only a local contest but also has implications for the broader Democratic strategy. As Republicans position Mamdani as a potential threat ahead of the midterms, the Democratic establishment is still grappling with how to navigate this situation. With prominent figures considering Mamdani’s messaging for their own campaigns, the race highlights the ongoing tensions within the party as it seeks to balance progressive ideals with the need to address controversial issues like antisemitism.