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Zohran Mamdani Faces Backlash for 2020 Middle Finger at Columbus Statue

July 8, 2025, 7:37 pm

New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani is coming under intense criticism after a 2020 tweet of his giving the finger to a Christopher Columbus statue in Astoria came back online. The Democratic nominee, who upset political circles last week by beating Governor Andrew Cuomo in the Democratic primary, is now in trouble with Italian American groups and community leaders.

In his June 2020 tweet, Zohran Mamdani directly called for the removal of the Columbus statue by labeling the image with “Take it down” during his state office bid. While the post didn’t pick up much steam then, it resurfaced during a politically charged moment as Mamdani prepares for the November mayoral election.

Columbus Statue Controversy Sparks Community Outrage

The Columbus Heritage Coalition, a powerful Italian American organization, found the tweet profoundly offensive. Angelo Vivolo, president of the coalition, denounced Mamdani’s behavior and stated that the organization would not endorse his candidacy.

Take it down. pic.twitter.com/7Bmis8hnnh

— Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@ZohranKMamdani) June 18, 2020

“We will protect Columbus Day and Columbus statues,” Vivolo stated. He also added, “If you insult one community, you insult all communities. I don’t think he will be mayor for all the people of New York City.”

Italian American Leaders Vow to Oppose Mamdani

The Italian American community, which makes up around 8% of NYC’s population, has been vocal about preserving statues and symbols linked to their heritage.
Joseph Scelsa, president of the Italian American Museum, also criticized Mamdani’s stance. “Who’s to say who is a hero and who is not a hero? Columbus is our hero,” he said.

Christopher Columbus statues and the celebration of Columbus Day have been politically and culturally charged issues for a long time. Some people disqualify Columbus from being celebrated because of how he treated Native Americans. There are plenty of Italian Americans, though, who consider him a symbol of their heritage and accomplishments in the United States.

Mamdani, a progressive political voice in NYC, has not comment on the scandal so far. He should expect to face intense competition in November, with Governor Andrew Cuomo potentially returning as an Independent, as well as Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa and incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, who might run again.

With this controversy unfolding, Mamdani’s campaign now faces added scrutiny from voters across ethnic and political lines, especially as identity and heritage become central themes in the NYC mayoral race.

Zohran Mamdani’s Artist Wife Rama Duwaji Wins Hearts Online

July 8, 2025, 12:08 pm

As Zohran Mamdani steps into the political spotlight, his personal life is gaining attention too. The 33-year-old son of filmmaker Mira Nair is running for New York City mayor—and his love story is making just as many headlines as his campaign.

A Modern Romance in Politics

Zohran met his now-wife, Rama Duwaji, through the dating app Hinge. Their relationship mirrors how many Gen-Z and millennials connect today.

In May, Zohran confirmed their marriage through Instagram. “Three months ago, I married the love of my life, Rama, at the City Clerk’s office,” he wrote. Addressing online criticism, he added, “Now, right-wing trolls are trying to make this race—which should be about you—about her.”

Meet Rama Duwaji

Rama Duwaji is a 27-year-old multimedia artist based in New York. She has Syrian roots and uses her art to explore Middle Eastern identity and culture. Her work has been featured in major outlets and even showcased at London’s Tate Modern Museum.

Zohran praised her publicly, saying, “Rama isn’t just my wife; she’s an incredible artist who deserves to be known on her own terms.”

A Deep Passion for Culture and Art

Rama graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University and later earned her master’s in illustration at the School of Visual Arts in New York.

Her website highlights that she uses “drawn portraiture and movement” to express “the nuances of sisterhood and communal experiences.”

Speaking with Yung Mea in April, Rama said, “These days, I focus on making art about my experiences and the things I care about.” She added that conversations around her work “happen organically” and build meaningful connections.

Her mostly black-and-white artworks focus on Arab cultural and emotional themes.

A Simple Beginning to a Strong Bond

The couple got engaged in October 2024 and later had a quiet civil wedding in early 2025. Even though the ceremony was private, the news soon spread online, sparking interest in Rama and her relationship with Mamdani.

Rama, originally from Syria, now lives in Texas with her family. However, she often travels to New York to support her husband and continue her work as an artist.

Why Did Trump Threaten to Deport NYC Mayoral Candidate Zohran Mamdani?

July 3, 2025, 9:49 am

The political feud between US President Donald Trump and New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani escalated sharply on Wednesday, with Mamdani accusing Trump of targeting him out of desperation and using him as a distraction from policies that harm working-class Americans.

Addressing the media, Mamdani — a Democratic Socialist and potential history-making candidate as the first Muslim, South Asian, and immigrant mayor of New York City in generations — pushed back strongly against Trump’s inflammatory rhetoric.

“Yesterday, Donald Trump said that I should be arrested, that I should be deported, that I should be de-naturalised, and he said those things about me, someone who stands to be the first immigrant mayor of this city in generations, someone who would also be the first Muslim and the first South Asian mayor in the city’s history,” Mamdani said.

Zohran Mamdani said Trump’s words revealed not just personal animosity but also an attempt to shift the public’s attention away from substantive issues.

“…Less so because of who I am, because of where I come from, because of how I look or how I speak, and more so because he wants to distract from what I fight for,” he said.

Zohran Mamdani Accuses Trump of Betraying Working-Class Americans

Zohran Mamdani claimed that Trump’s policies have systematically betrayed the very Americans he once promised to uplift.

“I fight for working people. I fight for the very people that have been priced out of this city, and I fight for the same people that he said he was fighting for,” he said.
>“This is the same President who ran on a campaign of cheaper groceries, who ran on a campaign about easing a suffocating cost of living crisis, and ultimately, it is easier for him to fan the flames of division than to acknowledge how he has betrayed those working-class Americans, not just in the city, but across this country.”

He also accused Trump of using legislative power to undermine basic social protections.

“And how he continues to betray them, because we know that he would rather speak about me than speak about the legislation that he is shepherding through Washington, DC, legislation that will quite literally take healthcare away from Americans, legislation that will steal food from the hungry, legislation that looks to build upon one of the largest transfers of wealth we’ve seen in recent history in his first administration, and do it once again for the very Americans who already have enough,” he added.

Donald Trump is attacking me because he is desperate to distract from his war on working people. We must and we will fight back. pic.twitter.com/pKEwnijJaG

— Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@ZohranKMamdani) July 2, 2025

Trump Threatens Action Against Mamdani

In recent days, Trump has intensified his attacks, calling Mamdani a “Communist Lunatic” and threatening to intervene in New York City’s affairs if he wins.

“As President of the United States, I’m not going to let this Communist Lunatic destroy New York. Rest assured, I hold all the levers and have all the cards,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. I’ll save New York City, and make it ‘Hot’ and ‘Great’ again, just like I did with the Good Ol’ USA!” he added.

Mamdani expressed concern not just for himself but for other immigrants.

“And ultimately what I feel for is that if this is what Donald Trump and his administration feel comfortable about saying, about the Democratic nominee for the mayor of New York City, imagine what they feel comfortable saying and doing about immigrants whose names they don’t even know,” he said.

He thanked his supporters, including the state governor and labor movement leaders, for their support during the controversy.

Zohran Mamdani Rejects Trump’s Deportation Threat, ‘We Will Not Accept Intimidation’

July 2, 2025, 1:47 pm

Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic candidate of Indian-origin for New York City Mayor, has vehemently rejected Donald Trump’s deportation threat. The President had accused Mamdani of being in the United States “illegally” and promised to have him arrested and deported. Trump made the statement after officials announced Mamdani as the Democratic nominee.

However, Zohran Mamdani has stated that he “will not accept intimidation” and labelled Trump’s threat an “attack on democracy.”. He blamed Trump for inciting hate and fear among immigrants in the country’s most diverse city.

Trump’s Deportation Threat

Trump attacked Mamdani soon after the candidate had won the Democratic nomination for mayor. While addressing the press, Trump called Mamdani a “lunatic and a communist” and raised questions regarding the legality of his citizenship. Trump threatened to have Mamdani arrested if he blocked Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from conducting operations in New York.

Trump falsely suggests @ZohranKMamdani is in the country “illegally” calls him a communist (he’s a Dem socialist) and then then goes on to call @ericadamsfornyc a “very good person” who he “helped out a little bit.” pic.twitter.com/7tOoULgPek

— Gloria Pazmino (@GloriaPazmino) July 1, 2025

Trump asserted that Mamdani, who immigrated to the US in 1998 as a seven-year-old, is not a legal citizen. He promised to send him back, inciting anger throughout immigrant communities and civil rights organizations.

Mamdani Responds: “We Will Not Be Intimidated”

Zohran Mamdani replied directly to President Trump. In a statement on X, he stated, “President of the United States just threatened to have me arrested, stripped of citizenship, placed in a detention camp and deported. Not because I have committed any crime but because I will not allow ICE to terrorise our city.”

My statement on Donald Trump’s threat to deport me and his praise for Eric Adams, who the President “helped out” of legal accountability. https://t.co/m7pNcT2DFS pic.twitter.com/UcYakMx4lI

— Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@ZohranKMamdani) July 1, 2025

He stated that Trump’s words are intended to silence the critics. “If you speak out, they will come for you,” he stated, referring to it as an open threat to all New Yorkers who refuse to live in fear.

Criticism of Adams and MAGA Politics

US President Donald Trump also spoke well of existing Mayor of New York Eric Adams, currently running independently. Adams was criticized by Mamdani, referring to his alignment with Trump’s “authoritarian threats” as dangerous.

It’s at a time when MAGA Republicans are going after healthcare and making billionaires richer that it’s a scandal that Adams is parroting Trump’s hate and division,” Mamdani said.

He contended that Adams had agreed to let ICE operate in his city in exchange for federal guardianship against corruption investigations.

November Outlook

According to media reports, Zohran Mamdani currently leads both Adams and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa in polling for the November election. His campaign has gained momentum as voters look for leadership that resists federal overreach and prioritises the city’s working families.

As the race heats up, Zohran Mamdani’s stance against Trump’s threats may further energise progressive voters across New York City.

Zohran Mamdani Stuns Andrew Cuomo in NYC Democratic Mayoral Primary Upset

July 2, 2025, 12:14 am

Zohran Mamdani won New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary, a revised count certified Tuesday, defeating former Gov. Andrew Cuomo in a shocking upset and sending him to the general election.

The Associated Press declared the winner after the city’s ranked choice voting tally results were released and revealed Zohran Mamdani defeating Cuomo by 12 percentage points.

Zohran Mamdani Thanks Supporters

In a statement, Mamdani stated he was encouraged by the support he had garnered during the primary and began focusing his eyes on the general election.

“Last Tuesday, Democrats spoke in a clear voice, delivering a mandate for an affordable city, a politics of the future, and a leader unafraid to fight back against rising authoritarianism,” he said. “I am humbled by the support of more than 545,000 New Yorkers who voted for our campaign and am excited to expand this coalition even further as we defeat Eric Adams and win a city government that puts working people first.”

Mamdani Narrowly Missed 50% Threshold on Primary Night

Mamdani’s win had been widely expected since he took a commanding lead after the polls closed a week ago, falling just short of the 50% of the vote needed to avoid another count under the city’s ranked choice voting model. The system allows voters’ other preferences to be counted if their top candidate falls out of the running.

Mamdani, who won on election night for the June 24 primary, will be matched against a general election lineup that includes incumbent Mayor Eric Adams along with independent candidate Jim Walden and Republican Curtis Sliwa.

Cuomo conceded defeat just hours after the polls closed last week but is contemplating whether to run in the general election on an independent ballot line. After the release of Tuesday’s vote count, Cuomo spokesperson Rich Azzopardi said “We’ll be continuing conversations with people from all across the city while determining next steps.”

Cuomo Camp Blasts Agenda as Divisive of Zohran Mamdani

“Extremism, division and empty promises are not the answer to this city’s problems, and while this was a look at what motivates a slice of our primary electorate, it does not represent the majority,” Azzopardi said. “The financial instability of our families is the priority here, which is why actionable solutions, results and outcomes matter so much.”

Mamdani, a 33-year-old democratic socialist and Assemblyman, was largely unknown when he entered the race on a sweeping platform of populist proposals. But he constructed a dynamic campaign that played circles around Cuomo as the older, more centrist Democrat attempted a comeback from the sexual harassment scandal that forced him to resign four years ago.

Shockwaves Through Political Establishment

The results, even before they were finalized, sent a shockwave through the political world.

Mamdani’s campaign, which was focused on lowering the cost of living, claims it has found a new blueprint for Democrats who have at times appeared rudderless during President Donald Trump‘s climb back to power.

The Democratic party establishment has moved cautiously toward Mamdani. Some of its major players cheered his candidacy but don’t appear to be willing to endorse the young progressive fully, whose earlier criticism of law enforcement, invocation of the term “genocide” to characterise the behavior of the Israeli government in Gaza and “democratic socialist” designation pose landmines for others in the party.

Historic Firsts if Zohran Mamdani Wins in November

If elected, Mamdani would be the city’s first Muslim mayor and its first of Indian American descent. He would also be among its youngest.

To Republicans, Mamdani has already given them a new target to shoot at. Trump and other members of the GOP have started to fire broadsides at him, seeking to cast Mamdani as the very embodiment of leftist excesses before significant elections elsewhere this year and next.

The ranked choice voting model in New York City permits a voter to choose as many as five candidates on a ballot in order of preference. When one candidate is the top choice of over 50% of voters, he or she wins the contest. Because no candidate met that threshold on primary night, ranked choice voting took over. The board will certify the election on July 15.

Mamdani’s Populist Platform Sparks Debate

Mamdani has served in the state Assembly since 2021, and has framed his inexperience as a potential strength. His campaign offered free city buses, free child care, a freeze on rent for those who live in rent-stabilized apartments, government-owned grocery stores and more, financed by taxes on the rich. Opponents have criticized his agenda as politically unrealistic.

Cuomo campaigned on his long tenure, portraying himself as the sole candidate who could rescue a city that he asserted had gone haywire. Throughout the campaign, he emphasized significantly in fighting antisemitism and relied on his name recognition and juggernaut fundraising machine instead of leaning over to greet voters.

Faced with the sexual harassment claims that marked the end of his governorship, he refused to have done anything wrong and insisted that the scandal was politicized and voters were eager to move on.

Cuomo Still Considers November Run

Cuomo did not withdraw his name from the November ballot last week, before a technical deadline to do so, and indicated he is still weighing whether to launch an actual campaign for the office.

Adams, while still a Democrat, is running in the November election as an independent. He dropped out of the Democratic primary in April after he was severely wounded by his now-dismissed federal bribery case. Though he had done little in the way of campaigning since then, he reignited his reelection operation in the days after Mamdani declared victory, calling it a choice between a candidate with a “blue collar” and one with a “silver spoon.”

‘Go Back to Third World’: Republican Lawmaker’s Dig at Zohran Mamdani Draws Ire

July 1, 2025, 1:01 pm

Texas Congressman Brandon Gill is facing severe online backlash after he made a controversial comment directed at Indian-origin New York mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani. The Republican lawmaker criticized Mamdani for eating rice with his hands in a resurfaced video and suggested that he should “go back to the Third World.”

In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Gill wrote, “Civilised people in America don’t eat like this. If you refuse to adopt Western customs, go back to the Third World.” His comment came in response to a 2023 video where Mamdani is seen eating rice with his hands during an interview with Uncivilised Media.

The statement quickly drew criticism from social media users who pointed out the cultural insensitivity and hypocrisy of Gill’s remark.

Zohran says his worldview is inspired by the 3rd world while eating rice with his hands pic.twitter.com/FDaQfcNSJv

— End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) June 29, 2025

Internet Users Call Out Hypocrisy

Many were quick to note that Gill is married to Danielle D’Souza, the Indian-origin daughter of right-wing commentator Dinesh D’Souza. Users unearthed photos showing Dinesh D’Souza eating with his hands and even mocked Gill with pictures of him eating pizza and hot dogs with his bare hands.

One X user sarcastically asked, “How do you eat tacos, french fries, burgers etc? Do you eat Lays with a fork too?” Another user wrote, “We need to send you back first then,” posting photos of Gill eating finger foods.

Danielle D’Souza Defends Her Husband

Gill’s wife, Danielle D’Souza Gill, supported his stance. Taking to X, she wrote, “I did not grow up eating rice with my hands and have always used a fork. I was born in America. I’m a Christian MAGA patriot. My father’s extended family lives in India and they are also Christian and they use forks too.”

Zohran Mamdani’s recent victory against Andrew Cuomo in the NYC Democratic primary has made him a target for Republicans. Some, including former President Donald Trump, have even called for his deportation.

The video that sparked the controversy features Zohran Mamdani stating, “When you grow up as someone, especially in the Third World, you have a very different understanding of the Palestinian struggle. It is one that is framed in terms of empathy and solidarity.”

MAGA Activists Add Fuel to the Fire

MAGA activist Laura Loomer also joined the attack, writing, “Honestly, being an Islamist and a Communist was enough for me to not want @ZohranKMamdani in office. He is from Africa. And you can tell in the way he eats. Disgusting.”

She continued, “@ZohranKMamdani eats his food and licks his fingers with his right hand. We already know what he does with the left hand as a ‘third worlder’. You don’t want to shake either hand.”

Loomer also accused Mamdani of hypocrisy, referencing his anti-billionaire stance while allegedly living in a $2 million condo owned by his mother, filmmaker Mira Nair.

Zohran Mamdani Says Billionaires Shouldn’t Exist, Targets Rich White NYC Neighborhoods With New Tax Plan

June 30, 2025, 11:04 am

Zohran Mamdani says billionaires shouldn’t exist in a city where so many people struggle to afford basic needs. Now leading the race for New York City mayor, Mamdani wants to raise property taxes on rich, mostly white neighbourhoods to fund public services.

His surprising primary win has brought national attention to his bold economic plans, which aim to make the city fairer for working-class families.

Zohran Mamdani doubles down on the plan to target ‘whiter neighborhoods,’ stating that billionaires should not exist. This stance implies that there would be no more owners of football teams, basketball teams, hockey teams, or NASCAR teams, nor would there be Fortune 500 business… pic.twitter.com/ndzTxO6JjY

— TRUTH SEEKERS (@TRUTHSEEKERS111) June 29, 2025

Tax Hike Target The Rich

Zohran Mamdani is sticking to his plan to raise property taxes in affluent, predominantly white areas of New York City. In an interview with NBC’s “Meet the Press,” he stated that the move is based on fairness, not race. “That is just a description of what we see right now. It’s not driven by race. It’s more of an assessment of what neighbourhoods are being under-taxed versus over-taxed,” Mamdani said.

Critics have called him “the Fidel Castro of New York,” and Donald Trump posted online, calling him a “100% Communist Lunatic” after his primary win. Mamdani denied those claims and said he supports democratic socialism. He believes the current tax system helps the rich while hurting average families. His goal is to make the system fairer by asking wealthier neighbourhoods to pay more.

Zohran Mamdani Fights Rising Costs

The Zohran Mamdani campaign says billionaires shouldn’t exist in a city with so much inequality. He wants to use new taxes on the top 1% to fund free buses, universal childcare, a $30 minimum wage, rent freezes, and city-run grocery stores.

When asked if billionaires should even exist, Mamdani said, “I don’t think that we should have billionaires because, frankly, it is so much money in a moment of such inequality.” If elected in November, he would be New York City’s first Muslim and Indian-American mayor.

His plans have gained support from young voters who want real change. Even with pushback from opponents, Mamdani continues to promote strong action to close the city’s growing wealth gap.

Trump Targets NYC’s First Muslim Mayoral As ‘Radical Lunatic,’ Threatens Federal Fund Cuts

June 30, 2025, 2:31 am

US President Donald Trump launched a scathing attack on New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary victor Zohran Mamdani on Sunday, labeling him as a “pure communist” and “radical leftist lunatic” in a television interview. Trump threatened New York would lose access to federal funds if Mamdani, a democratic socialist, “doesn’t behave himself.

Speaking on Fox News’ Sunday Morning Futures, Trump expressed alarm over Mamdani’s primary victory, which saw him defeat a scandal-plagued frontrunner. “I think it’s very bad for New York,” said Trump, who has deep roots in the city. “If he does get in, I’m going to be president and he is going to have to do the right thing or they’re not getting any money.”

Trump’s presidency has already threatened to cut off federal funding to Democratic-controlled cities, particularly those with sanctuary city policies. Mamdani has vowed to maintain New York’s sanctuary status, telling NBC’s Meet the Press that it allows undocumented residents to “get out of the shadows and into the full life of the city.

Responding to Trump’s attacks, Mamdani, a 33-year-old Ugandan-born state assemblyman, denied being a communist. “I’m fighting for the working people he claimed to support and has since betrayed,” Mamdani said, accusing Trump of focusing on his background to distract from policy discussions.

In spite of having a solid Democratic base, Mamdani will have tough competition in the general election. Mayor Eric Adams is seeking re-election as an independent candidate, and former Governor Andrew Cuomo can also be expected to join the fray as an independent candidate.

Zohran Mamdani, Trump’s “Worst Nightmare,” May Be His Best Asset

June 29, 2025, 1:56 pm

Zohran Mamdani, a democratic socialist from Queens, has become a surprise name in New York City politics. Just a few months ago, he had less than 1% support. But on June 24, he beat Andrew Cuomo in the Democratic mayoral primary, gaining national attention and reshaping the race.

His win shows how far voters have turned away from centrist politics, and it also gives Republicans a clear new target for criticism and strategy.

Zohran Mamdani’s Background and Views

Mamdani was born in Kampala, Uganda, and moved to the U.S. at age seven. His father, Mahmood Mamdani, teaches at Columbia University, and his mother, Mira Nair, is an Oscar-nominated filmmaker. Both have spoken out against Israel’s war in Gaza, something Mamdani also criticises publicly and consistently.

As a student, he helped start a pro-Palestine group. He later refused to condemn the phrase “globalise the intifada,” saying it stood for Palestinian equality. Many Jewish New Yorkers saw the phrase as violent. Before running for office, he worked as a foreclosure-prevention counsellor and once rapped under the name “Mr Cardamom,” performing in small local events.

Mamdani is part of the Democratic Socialists of America. He ran on a platform of affordability, calling for free buses, rent freezes, city-run grocery stores, and higher taxes on the wealthy. His campaign reached young and moderate voters and flipped some areas that had voted for Trump.

Republicans Target Zohran Mamdani

Mamdani has called himself “Donald Trump’s worst nightmare as a progressive, Muslim immigrant.” But Republicans say his win helps their cause. Representative Elise Stefanik called him “the single most effective foil for Republicans nationally.” Trump called him “a 100% Communist Lunatic” in a strongly worded online post.

In November, Mamdani will face Republican Curtis Sliwa and two independents, Eric Adams and possibly Cuomo. If he wins, he’ll be the city’s first Muslim mayor, its youngest, and the first major left-wing name to rise during Trump’s second term.

Statue of Liberty Wears Burqa in MAGA Post | WATCH

June 26, 2025, 5:20 pm

When Zohran Mamdani became the front runner in the Democratic mayoral primary in New York City, MAGA fans inundated social media with Islamophobic posts, most prominently, manipulated photos of the Statue of Liberty sporting a burqa. Even though final tallies were not yet in, Mamdani’s commanding lead had induced his primary adversary, former governor Andrew Cuomo, to concede.

Mamdani, 33, would be San Jose’s first Muslim mayor if he won. His religion and Gujarati Muslim heritage became targets of hate on social media. Among the hate-mongers was far-right Republican Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene, who posted a digitally manipulated picture of the Statue of Liberty wearing a black burqa.

This hits hard. pic.twitter.com/YUrNTZW5lq

— Marjorie Taylor Greene 🇺🇸 (@mtgreenee) June 25, 2025

MAGA ally Don Keith also shared the photo, writing in a sarcastic tone: “Congratulations New York.”

Congratulations New York. pic.twitter.com/UhOKJSCcSN

— Don Keith (@RealDonKeith) June 25, 2025

Photos of Mamdani dressed in the kurta-pajama outfit were shared with hashtags such as “Never Forget,” a nod to the September 11 terrorist attacks perpetrated by al-Qaeda, fueling Islamophobic hate.

After 9/11 we said “Never Forget.”

I think we sadly have forgotten. pic.twitter.com/f3iCXKUIRa

— Nancy Mace (@NancyMace) June 25, 2025

Mamdani, who was born in Uganda, has been a vocal critic of Republican leader Donald Trump for long. He has also criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu openly and defended Palestinian nationalism, which added to right-wing venom.

Symbolism of the Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty, a gift from France in 1886, is a permanent symbol of freedom, democracy, and hope for immigrants coming to America. Its designer was French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, and it was engineered by Gustave Eiffel. It has turned out to be one of the most well-known landmarks in New York.

Notably, as documented in a Smithsonian Magazine report, the statue was initially conceived as that of a Muslim woman. Bartholdi initially suggested the monument as a veiled Egyptian peasant woman inspired by the ancient colossal statues to commemorate industrial advancement.

This less well-known origin brings an element of irony to recent right-wing furor. While extremists try to hijack the Statue of Liberty to strike back at Mamdani, his beginnings might be more culturally tied to his descent than they know.

Zohran Mamdani’s 5 Bold Promises to Transform New York City

June 26, 2025, 3:57 pm

Zohran Mamdani, the 33-year-old Democrat, is set to make history as the first Muslim mayor of New York City. Until Wednesday morning (June 25), Mamdani was holding a strong lead against former Governor Andrew Cuomo with 95% of the votes counted. His candidacy has gained a lot of attention for its liberal leaning, particularly from immigrant and working-class communities, which differentiates him from incumbent Mayor Eric Adams.

Solving the Affordability Crisis

At the heart of Mamdani’s campaign is his pledge to combat the affordability crisis that grips the city. Speaking to the BBC at a recent event, he said, “This is a city where one in four of its people are living in poverty, a city where 500,000 kids go to sleep hungry every night. And ultimately, it’s a city that is in danger of losing that which makes it so special.”

To solve this, he has put forward opening up city-operated grocery stores, freezing rent on all rent-stabilized units, increasing enforcement for landlords, and setting up a Social Housing Development Agency that would be responsible for building 200,000 subsidized homes within three years.

Increasing Community Support and Education

Mamdani is also campaigning for universal childcare for children between six weeks and five years of age. In education, he vows to abolish tuition fees at public universities and withdraw property tax exemptions from private universities. He also plans to set up a Department of Community Safety to improve access to mental health care, community services, and housing assistance.

Funding Through Wealth Taxes

To finance these ambitious proposals, Mamdani is calling for a 2% city income tax on those earning more than $1 million and higher taxes on corporations. This money would go towards principal initiatives, such as universal childcare, free CUNY and SUNY tuition, expanded tenant legal services, fare-free public transportation, and city-subsidized grocery stores.

Public Transit, Climate, and Infrastructure

Mamdani is going to make riding all of the MTA buses free and place a freeze on subway prices.These policies will draw ridership for public transportation, fight traffic congestion, promote environmental sustainability, and improve conditions for cyclists and pedestrians.

Immigration, LGBTQ+ Rights, and Controversial Views on Israel

Mamdani has been firm on international and social matters. Mamdani has been a supporter of the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement and called Israel’s behavior “genocide.” He is of the opinion that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu must be brought to book according to international law. Although he is ready to accept Israel’s right to exist, Mamdani believes in the application of international legal norms. He also used to bring legislation to revoke tax-free status from U.S.-based charities that provide funding for Israeli settlements.

At home, Mamdani is a vocal advocate of LGBTQ+ rights. He promises to establish an LGBTQ+ Affairs Office focused on the community, increase access to gender-affirming care, and extend sanctuary protections to undocumented immigrants. His agenda also entails increased legal assistance and language assistance for immigrant communities.

Mamdani has boasted openly about his Muslim heritage during the campaign, even publishing an entire campaign video in Urdu.

With Tuesday’s (June 24) election now a success, Mamdani is waiting for the official confirmation. If so, he will be sworn in this November, a historic occasion not just for New York City, but also for Muslim and immigrant representation in US politics.

Who Is Rama Duwaji? Artist Wife of Zohran Mamdani Who Met on Hinge

June 26, 2025, 12:35 pm

Rama Duwaji, a Syrian-American illustrator who is 27 years old and whose politics are known for being bold, is married to 33-year-old New York State Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani. Mamdani was making news after he took out the former governor Andrew Cuomo to win the Democratic nomination for New York City mayor, something that shocked many.

On voting day, Duwaji indicated her pride in a moving four-word Instagram message, “couldn’t possibly be prouder.” She eventually took the stage with Mamdani for his victory speech, where he stopped to thank her by name, saying, “I must thank my incredible wife. Rama, thank you,” before tenderly kissing her hand.

If Mamdani wins against Mayor Eric Adams and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa in the next November election, he would be the city’s first Muslim mayor and Duwaji, its First Lady.

Art Rooted in Resistance

Duwaji, based in Brooklyn and active in Brooklyn, is known for producing incisive multimedia content that tends to revolve around issues of identity, injustice, and rebellion and more often than not, from a pro-Palestinian standpoint. She has worked with leading international institutions such as The New Yorker, BBC, Apple, Spotify, VICE, The Washington Post, and the London-based Tate Modern, according to the Associated Press.

She recently discussed the interplay of activism and creativity in an interview. “I’ll always say what Nina Simone said: ‘An artist’s duty as far as I’m concerned is to reflect the times,'” she declared.

“I think everybody has a responsibility to use their voice against injustice… I don’t think everyone has to create political work, but art is always political in the way that it’s created, funded, and disseminated.”
She went on, “Even making art as a sanctuary from what we see is political to me. It’s a response to what’s going on in the world around us.”

On election night, Duwaji’s mother-in-law, director Mira Nair, left a moving message regarding the value of art, taking into consideration Duwaji’s position not only as a family member but as an artist and voice of defiance.

Hinged for Life

The relationship of the couple started in a modern way. “I met my wife on Hinge so there is still hope in those dating apps,” Mamdani quipped while appearing as a guest on The Bulwark podcast.

About six weeks back, Mamdani posted a series of photos from their civil wedding on social media. One of the standout black-and-white pictures showed the couple on a Union Square subway train, Duwaji wearing a white dress and boots, bouquet in hand, amid oblivious commuters.

Before their New York City civil ceremony, the couple had celebrated their engagement in Dubai, where Duwaji’s family lives. The intimate event, according to a campaign statement cited by The New York Post, was filled with love and joy.

Battling Online Hate

Despite their strong bond and shared values, the couple has endured harsh online abuse — much of it politically motivated. Mamdani addressed this in a candid post, “If you look at Twitter today, or any given day for that matter, you know how ugly politics can get,” he wrote.

“I brush it off usually, whether it’s death threats or calls for deportation. But it’s different when it’s about those you love.”

He added, “Three months ago, I married my best friend, Rama, at the City Clerk’s office. Now, right-wing trolls are attempting to turn this race — and one that should be about you — into one about her.”
Protecting her identity and work, he went on, “Rama isn’t merely my wife. She’s a remarkable artist who must be known on her own terms. You can disagree with my opinions, but not my family.”

“He Looks Terrible”: Trump Slams Indian-Origin NYC Mayoral Candidate Zohran Mamdani

June 26, 2025, 8:54 am

US President Donald Trump has responded strongly to the emergence of Zohran Mamdani, an Indian-origin left-wing and self-claimed socialist, after he won the Democratic mayoral primary election in New York City. Trump called Mamdani a “100 per cent Communist Lunatic” and had a go at progressive Democrats backing his candidacy.

Trump stated the comments in a post on his platform, Truth Social, “It’s happened, finally, the Democrats have gone too far. Zohran Mamdani, a 100% Communist Lunatic, just won the Dem Primary, and is headed to become Mayor. We’ve had Radical Lefties previously, but this is getting somewhat absurd.”

Trump Bashes Looks and Political Supporters of Zohran Mamdani

With his own personal and blistering attack, Trump went on to say, “He’s a DISASTER, his voice is horrible, he’s not too bright, he’s got AOC+3, Dummies ALL, supporting him, and even our Wonderful Palestinian Senator, Cryin’ Chuck Schumer, is kneeling before him. Yes, this is an important moment in the History of our Nation!”

Trump also suggested, presumably in jest, that Democrats should nominate “Low IQ Candidate, Jasmine Crockett, for President” and appoint members of the progressive “Squad,” led by Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, to Cabinet posts.

Rise to Prominence of Zohran Mamdani

Zohran Mamdani, a New York State Assemblyman for Queens, is the son of Indian-American director Mira Nair and Ugandan-born Marxist academic Mahmood Mamdani. He won the primary with 43.5 percent of the vote, with 90 percent of the votes reported, after former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo conceded the election.

If Mamdani were to win the general election, he would be New York City’s first Muslim mayor. The Democratic Socialists of America support him, and he has gained popularity with daring policy proposals like freezing rents, providing universal childcare, and offering free bus services — proposals that resonate in a city grappling with high living expenses.

Progressive Heavyweights’ support

Key progressive figures, including Senator Bernie Sanders and Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, support Mamdani’s candidacy. His vocal criticism of Israel, accusing the nation of “genocide,” has made him a target for Trump and conservative circles.

Who Is Zohran Mamdani? The Muslim Socialist Set To Make NYC Mayoral History

June 26, 2025, 3:53 am

Zohran Mamdani, New York state legislator and front-runner in the Democratic primary for New York City mayor at age 33, is being beset by Islamophobic attacks after his seeming win over former Governor Andrew Cuomo.

If voted for in November, Mamdani would be the city’s first Muslim mayor. His platform was built around pressing economic concerns like affordable housing, transportation reform, access to childcare, and lowering food prices. In spite of attempts by the right to frame him entirely in terms of his religion and progressive ideology, Mamdani emerged victorious with 43.5% of first-choice votes through the city’s ranked-choice voting process. The final outcome will be announced in early July following vote redistribution.

While conservative figures have criticized his platform, many have launched explicit religious attacks. Far-right activist Laura Loomer claimed Mamdani’s win would bring about “9/11 2.0.” Donald Trump Jr. and Turning Point USA’s Charlie Kirk made similar comparisons, suggesting Mamdani’s candidacy is a threat to the city. Republican Rep. Nancy Mace posted a photo of Mamdani alongside references to 9/11, implying New Yorkers had forgotten its significance.

Mamdani, who is a Queens-based Democratic Socialist, has also been criticized for his outspoken advocacy on behalf of Palestinian rights, including the BDS movement and arrest demands for Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu. Cuomo was accused by a Cuomo-backing super PAC of spreading antisemitism, an accusation Mamdani strongly denied.

In public statements, Mamdani reaffirmed his resistance to all antisemitism, vowing to increase hate crime prevention if he were to be elected. He also spoke to the individual cost of religiously motivated abuse, saying that he is often the target of death threats.

In spite of the animosity, Mamdani told his campaign continues to be about bringing New Yorkers together around common economic issues. “This campaign is about making life more affordable and more just for all New Yorkers,” he said.

Zohran Mamdani Drops Iconic ‘Deewar’ Dialogue During NYC Mayoral Campaign to Win Desis | WATCH

June 25, 2025, 2:02 pm

Indian-American New York City Council Member Zohran Mamdani is causing a stir with a new campaign video presented in its entirety in Hindi, targeting South Asian voters in preparation for the city’s mayoral election.

In the X video, Mamdani vows major reforms such as rent reduction, free public transport, universal childcare, and cheap groceries. Employing a popular Bollywood theme to add muscle to his pitch, he states, “There are only 20 days to this election, and the decision is me or Andrew Cuomo,” before invoking the memorable line from Deewar, “Today he has buildings, property, bank balance, bungalow, car. What do you have? You.”

Framing the Campaign as People-Powered

Mamdani frames his campaign as a people’s movement, one powered by regular New Yorkers. “Because of you, we’ve raised $8 million and knocked on over 600,000 doors. We are this close to making this city’s first South Asian mayor,” he says. “But it’s not about what I will become it’s about what I will do.”

He also highlights the city’s affordability crisis, stating, “New Yorkers are fighting to pay for food, clothing, and shelter. I am fighting to change that.”

Clarifying the Voting Process and Focusing on Cuomo

Informing viewers about New York City’s ranked-choice voting system, Mamdani elucidates, “The more you rank, the stronger your ballot and voice.” He encourages voters to make him their first choice.

Mamdani does not hold back from attacking political behemoth and erstwhile Governor Andrew Cuomo for ties to controversial donors. “His campaign is being run with Trump’s donors’ money,” Mamdani alleges. “If Cuomo gets elected, NYC will also be theirs just like D.C.”

The video ends with a concise populist message. “Billionaires already have everything. Now, it’s your turn,” Mamdani states, highlighting his platform’s emphasis on ordinary people.

Watch Here:

Billionaires ke paas already sab kuchh hai. Ab, aapka time aageya.

Billionaires already have everything. Now, your time has come. pic.twitter.com/bJcgxzt37S

— Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@ZohranKMamdani) June 4, 2025

Zohran Mamdani, son of celebrated director Mira Nair and scholar Mahmood Mamdani, gained U.S. citizenship post-2016. A proponent of left-leaning politics, he was also active in Bernie Sanders’ 2020 campaign and is now placing himself as a serious grass roots candidate in a mayoral election still dominated by influential establishmentarians.

The election takes place later this month.