Democratic socialist candidate Zohran Mamdani has addressed his past calls to defund the police, clarifying that such statements were made out of frustration rather than a deliberate policy goal. During an appearance on Fox News’ ‘The Story,’ Mamdani explained that his initial rhetoric was a reaction to systemic issues within law enforcement, rather than a concrete plan to dismantle police departments. The discussion reflects broader debates within political circles about the role of law enforcement, the effectiveness of defunding police policies, and the need for comprehensive police reform.
Mamdani, a member of the Democratic Socialists of America, has consistently advocated for significant changes in policing, including reallocating funds to community-based initiatives and addressing the root causes of crime. While his past statements have drawn criticism, he has maintained that his focus has always been on structural reform rather than outright abolition. The debate continues to be a contentious issue in the Democratic Party, with varying perspectives on how to balance public safety with the demands for police accountability and reform.