Front-Runner Mamdani Embraces Muslim Identity

Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic nominee and front-runner for New York City mayor, gave an emotional speech outside a Bronx mosque pledging to more openly embrace his Muslim identity after a wave of attacks he called “racist and baseless,” recounting indignities such as his aunt stopping subway rides after 9/11. He said he had downplayed his faith earlier in the campaign but will “no longer live in the shadows” and intends to mobilize Muslim, South Asian and other voters. The attacks have centered on his criticism of Israel and were amplified by former Governor Andrew Cuomo and allies, including a radio appearance in which Cuomo appeared to laugh at a host’s suggestion Mamdani would “cheer” another 9/11, prompting accusations from some Democrats that Cuomo’s campaign is veering into Islamophobia. Cuomo’s camp briefly posted then deleted a video ridiculing Mamdani, and Mayor Eric Adams and Republican Curtis Sliwa have also made comments linking Mamdani to security concerns that critics say stoke fear. Mamdani’s public embrace of his faith has intensified scrutiny of religious identity in the race and could galvanize voters who felt marginalized.