House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) announced his delayed endorsement of Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic Socialist candidate for New York City mayor, just one day before early voting begins. The decision came after months of hesitation and pressure from progressive allies, with Jeffries finally aligning himself with Mamdani despite lingering concerns about the candidate’s far-left policies.
Jeffries cited Mamdani’s focus on addressing the city’s affordability crisis and his commitment to representing all New Yorkers “including those who do not support his candidacy” as reasons for the endorsement. The statement came ahead of the November 4 elections, where Mamdani is currently leading in polls against former Governor Andrew Cuomo (D-NY), now running as an Independent, and Republican Curtis Silwa.
Mamdani secured a surprising primary victory in June, defeating Cuomo in what was seen as a major upset. His campaign has drawn scrutiny for its radical proposals, including calls to abolish prisons and implement higher taxes on “whiter” neighborhoods. Jeffries had previously raised questions about Mamdani’s past rhetoric on Israel and anti-Semitism, as well as his approach to gentrification in Black communities. The endorsement followed two private meetings in Brooklyn, mediated by activist Al Sharpton.
The timing of Jeffries’ support has highlighted internal Democratic Party divisions over Mamdani’s progressive agenda, with some critics arguing the late backing undermines party unity ahead of the general election.
