Zohran Mamdani’s unexpected victory in New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary has unleashed a torrent of Islamophobic attacks across social media and political circles.
The 33-year-old state assembly member, poised to become the city’s first Muslim and Indian American mayor if elected in November, has faced death threats and xenophobic slurs since his win.
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) Action reported 127 violent hate-related incidents targeting Mamdani or his campaign in the 24 hours following the primary, a five-fold spike compared to earlier this month.
Approximately 6,200 online posts containing Islamophobic hostility were noted in the same period, with 62% originating on X.
High-profile Republicans have fueled the vitriol, framing Mamdani’s candidacy as a threat. Donald Trump Jr. shared a post on X stating, “New York City has fallen,” linking Mamdani’s win to 9/11.
Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene posted an AI-generated image of the Statue of Liberty in a burqa, while far-right activist Laura Loomer warned of “another 9/11” under Mamdani’s leadership.
New York City Councilwoman Vickie Paladino called him a “known jihadist terrorist” and demanded his deportation, despite his U.S. citizenship.
These attacks echo historical tactics used against Muslim and South Asian political figures like Keith Ellison and Ilhan Omar, weaponizing faith and heritage to question loyalty.
Mamdani, a democratic socialist with pro-Palestinian views, has faced personal tolls from the hate, including threats to his life and loved ones. “I get messages that say the only good Muslim is a dead Muslim,” he said on MSNBC, emphasizing his focus on affordability and inclusivity for New Yorkers.
The NYPD’s hate crimes unit is investigating threats, including one referencing explosive devices. CAIR’s Corey Saylor noted the attacks mirror broader Islamophobic trends, potentially discouraging Muslim participation in public life.
Despite accusations of antisemitism from Republicans, Mamdani, backed by Jewish official Brad Lander, condemns such prejudice, advocating for equal rights and a city where all feel represented.