In a Monday interview on MSNBC’s ‘Rachel Maddow Show,’ former Vice President Kamala Harris offered what many interpreted as a lukewarm endorsement for New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani. The interview came as part of a broader campaign to promote her new book, ‘107 Days,’ which was released on Tuesday. Harris, in the discussion, touched upon her ‘stars project,’ a program designed to identify and support emerging leaders within the Democratic Party.
During the interview, Maddow pressed Harris on her endorsement of Mamdani, who has become a prominent figure in the progressive wing of the Democratic Party. Harris responded with a conditional endorsement, expressing support for the Democratic nominee but quickly emphasizing that Mamdani was not the only star in the party. She highlighted other candidates like Barbara Drummond in Mobile, Alabama, and Helena Moreno in New Orleans, urging the Democratic base to expand its focus beyond New York City.
The endorsement came at a time when Mamdani remains unendorsed by major party figures, including New York’s House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer. Despite this, New York Governor Kathy Hochul endorsed Mamdani on September 14, recognizing his potential to challenge Donald Trump in the mayoral race. Hochul’s support, however, has not been without controversy, as Mamdani has faced criticism from more moderate Democrats for his progressive policies and rhetorical stance, including his refusal to condemn the anti-Israel slogan ‘globalize the intifada.’
The political climate in New York, where Mamdani has yet to secure broad party backing, underscores the growing divide within the Democratic Party. While some view Mamdani as a key figure in the left’s push for progressive policies, others see his candidacy as a threat to the party’s broader coalition. Harris’s cautious endorsement reflects a strategic move to balance support for high-profile candidates without alienating more centrist members of the party.
As the mayoral race in New York intensifies, the political implications of Harris’s actions and the broader support for Mamdani will likely continue to shape the national Democratic narrative. With major party leaders still hesitant to endorse Mamdani, the race remains a critical test for the party’s leadership and unity, especially in the face of upcoming elections at the state and federal levels.