Bill de Blasio Denounces Fabricated Interview Criticizing Zohran Mamdani

On October 28, 2025, The Times of London published an article containing fabricated quotes attributed to former New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, falsely claiming he criticized Democratic mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani's policy proposals. The article suggested that de Blasio expressed concerns about the feasibility of Mamdani's plans, which include free public transportation, universal childcare, and a rent freeze on stabilized apartments. The publication quickly retracted the article after discovering that a person impersonating de Blasio had misled their reporter.

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Upon learning of the article, de Blasio took to social media to express his outrage, stating, “I’m appalled. I never spoke to that reporter and never said those things. Those quotes aren’t mine, don’t reflect my views.” He characterized the article as “entirely false and fabricated,” demanding its immediate removal and calling it “an absolute violation of journalistic ethics.” De Blasio reaffirmed his support for Mamdani, stating, “The truth is I fully support Zohran Mamdani and believe his vision is both necessary and achievable.” He emphasized that everything he has heard about Mamdani's vision is achievable, albeit it may take time to implement.

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The Times of London, owned by Rupert Murdoch's News Corp, issued an apology to de Blasio, acknowledging the error and the breach of trust involved in publishing the misleading article. The incident occurred just days before the closely watched mayoral election, where Mamdani is leading in polls against former Governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa. Critics of Mamdani, including Cuomo's spokesperson, seized on the fabricated quotes to undermine his campaign, suggesting that de Blasio had finally recognized the impracticality of Mamdani's proposals.

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Despite de Blasio's strong support for Mamdani, there are significant concerns regarding the financial implications of the proposed policies. Critics argue that the ambitious agenda could cost over $7 billion annually and would require substantial legislative support. Opponents, particularly from the right, have labeled Mamdani's plans as unrealistic, with Cuomo's camp dismissing them as “glitter and vibes.”

Did Bill de Blasio turn on Zohran Mamdani? Impersonator dupes British newspaper, stirs up NYC mayoral race

• “It’s a complete fabrication.” — Bill de Blasio, Former Mayor of New York City

New York Times

• “I demand The Times pull down this story immediately. It is an absolute violation of journalistic ethics,” — Bill de Blasio

Common Dreams

• “The truth is I fully support Zohran Mamdani and believe his vision is both necessary and achievable.” — Bill de Blasio

Common Dreams

• “I’ve said repeatedly that everything I’ve heard of Zohran’s vision is achievable,” — Bill de Blasio

Common Dreams

The incident highlights the potential for misinformation to influence political discourse, particularly in the lead-up to elections. As Mamdani continues to campaign on a progressive platform, the fallout from this impersonation case may shape public perception and voter sentiment in the upcoming election on November 4, 2025.

Common Dreams