Story perspectives

Mayor-Elect's Appointee Resigns Over Antisemitic Posts

12/22/2025

Summary

Story summary

Catherine Almonte Da Costa resigned from Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s administration after antisemitic social media posts resurfaced.
The Anti-Defamation League highlighted derogatory comments about Jewish people, prompting her resignation one day after she was named director of appointments.
Mamdani said he was unaware of the posts and would not have hired her had he known.
His transition team plans to revamp vetting amid concerns about commitment to the Jewish community.

History

Historical Context

Antisemitism in the U.S. surged significantly after World War II, prompting organizations like the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) to advocate for Jewish rights. By 2023, the ADL reported over 8,800 antisemitic incidents, marking a 140% increase from 2022. Catherine Almonte Da Costa's resignation from Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s administration underscores ongoing challenges in addressing antisemitism within political frameworks.

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Story summary

Catherine Almonte Da Costa resigned from Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s administration after antisemitic social media posts resurfaced.
The Anti-Defamation League highlighted derogatory comments about Jewish people, prompting her resignation one day after she was named director of appointments.
Mamdani said he was unaware of the posts and would not have hired her had he known.
His transition team plans to revamp vetting amid concerns about commitment to the Jewish community.

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