Key facts
- Mayor Mamdani referred to AIPAC as 'monsters,' a term he defended by referencing Antonio Gramsci.
- Mamdani criticized AIPAC's support for the status quo in Gaza and its alleged use of 'dark money' in political races.
- Many candidates endorsed by Mamdani defended his remarks, framing them as a critique of AIPAC's influence and policies.
- Some politicians, including Rep. Dan Goldman and his opponent Lander, declined to comment on Mamdani's statements.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has drawn a mixed response from political figures after referring to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) as 'monsters.' Mamdani defended his controversial remarks, stating he took the term from a quote by Italian Communist Party leader Antonio Gramsci and that his criticism was directed at AIPAC's support for the 'status quo' in Gaza, which he described as a 'status quo of immorality.' He also alleged AIPAC's use of 'dark money' in congressional races.
Many candidates endorsed by Mamdani aligned with his stance. Assemblymember Claire Valdez, running to replace Rep. Nydia Velazquez, stated Mamdani was calling out a lobby that has supported what she described as 'genocide in Gaza.' Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso echoed this, declaring, 'AIPAC is bad — period.'
However, some politicians opted for silence. Democratic Rep. Dan Goldman, facing criticism from his opponent for his ties to the pro-Israel lobby, declined to comment on Mamdani's statements. His opponent, former city comptroller Lander, did not respond to requests for comment. Both Goldman and Lander are Jewish.