Full Breakdown
Opposition to Zohran Mamdani: A Rabbinic Call to Action
10/23/2025, 12:03:46 PM
Rising Concerns Over Anti-Zionism in Politics
As the New York mayoral election approaches, a coalition of over 650 rabbis and cantors from across the United States has publicly opposed Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani, citing concerns over his anti-Zionist rhetoric and its implications for the Jewish community. The letter, titled “A Rabbinic Call to Action: Defending the Jewish Future,” highlights Mamdani's past defense of the slogan “globalize the Intifada,” his refusal to acknowledge Israel's legitimacy as a Jewish state, and accusations against Israel of genocide in Gaza. Prominent signatories include Rabbi Ammiel Hirsch of the Stephen Wise Free Synagogue and Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove of the Park Avenue Synagogue, both of whom have voiced that Mamdani's views could exacerbate hostility towards Jews.
Key Figures and Groups
The letter was organized by the Jewish Majority advocacy group, led by Jonathan Schulman, a veteran of AIPAC. It includes signatories from various denominations, with significant representation from New York City, where 121 rabbis signed on. Notable figures include Rabbi Joshua Davidson of Temple Emanu-El and Rabbi David Ingber of Romemu. The collective concern reflects a broader anxiety within the Jewish community regarding the normalization of anti-Zionism in political discourse.
Mamdani's Position and Responses
Zohran Mamdani has attempted to clarify his stance, stating that he supports Israel's right to exist but opposes the phrase “globalize the Intifada,” acknowledging its potential to instill fear among Jews. He has also pledged to combat antisemitism and proposed increasing funding for hate violence programs significantly. Despite these reassurances, critics argue that his past statements and affiliations raise serious concerns about his commitment to Jewish safety.
Criticism and Opposition
Opponents, including Rabbi Cosgrove, have labeled Mamdani a “danger to the security of the New York Jewish community.” They argue that his rhetoric undermines Jewish self-determination and could lead to increased hostility towards Jews. The letter emphasizes the need for unity among Jews and their allies to reject anti-Zionist rhetoric and affirm the rights of Jews to live securely.
Official Statements & Responses
The letter asserts, “We will not accept a culture that treats Jewish self-determination as a negotiable ideal.” It calls on all Americans to support candidates who reject antisemitism and anti-Zionism. Rabbi Hirsch stated that Mamdani’s views could “delegitimize the Jewish community,” while Rabbi Cosgrove urged congregants to vote against him and encourage others to do the same.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the letter reflects a strong consensus among many Jewish leaders, some polls indicate that a portion of Jewish voters support Mamdani, suggesting a divide within the community. A Fox News poll found that 38% of Jewish New Yorkers intend to vote for him, indicating that his views resonate with a segment of the electorate despite the opposition from prominent rabbis.
What's Next
As the election date of November 4 approaches, the debate over Mamdani's candidacy continues to intensify, with early voting set to begin shortly. The outcome of this election may have lasting implications for the relationship between the Jewish community and the Democratic Party, as well as the broader discourse on anti-Zionism in American politics.
