Rep. Ilhan Omar, a Democratic representative from Minnesota, criticized Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer for not endorsing Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic candidate for New York City mayor. The controversy stems from Mamdani’s progressive policies and his controversial statements, including his slow response to the phrase ‘Globalize the intifāda,’ which some have labeled antisemitic. Omar questioned Schumer’s reluctance to support Mamdani, noting the leader’s own encouragement for Democrats to back their party’s nominee. She cited the surge in anti-Muslim attacks as a reason for the endorsement, emphasizing the candidate’s support among Muslims, young voters, and Jewish communities.
In an interview with CNN host Kasie Hunt, Omar expressed frustration over Schumer’s hesitation to endorse Mamdani, highlighting the inconsistency in the Democratic Party’s actions. “We as Democrats have always believed that, in an election, we support our party’s nominee. Schumer has pressured other Democrats to do just that, and he should be following his own advice,” she stated. The conversation also touched on the role of religion in the political climate, with Omar emphasizing the impact of anti-Muslim rhetoric and the need for democratic leaders to address these concerns.
Omar also responded to claims that Mamdani’s delayed condemnation of the ‘Globalize the intifāda’ phrase constituted antisemitism, calling the accusations overused and absurd. “Everything he does or says seems to be called antisemitic,” she remarked, adding that Mamdani’s coalition includes a broad range of New Yorkers, including Jewish voters, Muslims, and young people who see hope in his proposed policies. The discussion also brought up the endorsement of Mamdani by Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, prompting Omar to support Ocasio-Cortez’s autonomy in the political arena.
The ongoing debate over Mamdani’s candidacy reflects broader tensions within the Democratic Party, particularly regarding the balance between progressive policies and the risk of alienating key voter groups. While some, like former Clinton campaign members, have urged Democratic leaders to avoid being bullied into endorsements, others argue that the party must remain united in its support for its nominees. As the NYC mayoral race progresses, the stance of figures like Schumer and Omar will continue to shape the political landscape, with implications for both the local and national Democratic strategy.