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Mayor-Elect's Inaugural Committee Marred by Controversial Appointees

12/27/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani's inaugural committee includes Alvaro Lopez, a Democratic Socialists of America leader.
Lopez has anti-Israel remarks, praising two women who tore down posters and accusing U.S. Rep. Ritchie Torres.
Rachel Griffin-Accurso, an appointee, has been accused of promoting anti-Israel propaganda in children's videos.
Catherine Almonte Da Costa, head of appointments, resigned after antisemitic tweets surfaced.
Lopez later claimed he did not recall his social-media comments.

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Story summary

Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani's inaugural committee includes Alvaro Lopez, a Democratic Socialists of America leader.
Lopez has anti-Israel remarks, praising two women who tore down posters and accusing U.S. Rep. Ritchie Torres.
Rachel Griffin-Accurso, an appointee, has been accused of promoting anti-Israel propaganda in children's videos.
Catherine Almonte Da Costa, head of appointments, resigned after antisemitic tweets surfaced.
Lopez later claimed he did not recall his social-media comments.