‘Smears and Slander’: Zohran Mamdani Addresses Backlash

Zohran Mamdani at Tesla Takedown rally

New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani has proposed an ambitious reform of the city’s property tax system aimed at addressing long-standing perceived inequities. His plan aims to shift the tax burden away from lower-income communities and onto "richer and whiter" neighborhoods, ensuring that affluent homeowners pay a fairer share. Mamdani argued that this approach reflects his broader commitment to housing affordability.

Zohran Mamdani speaks at Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s Town Hall

While Mamdani's proposal has drawn criticism from property owners and political conservatives, it has also gained broad progressive support. Supporters have noted the need for increased structural reform in the city’s tax system.

Zohran Mamdani speaks at Democratic primary debate

Mamdani advanced in the Democratic primary despite lacking a majority win. His campaign has promoted socialist ideals and relies heavily on social media to reach voters.

Zohran Mamdani at 2025 NYC Pride March

Mamdani said, “There are a lot of concerns based on a caricature of myself. I don't blame New Yorkers for having that caricature because they've had to deal with more than $30 million of spending that paints me in that manner — that smears and slanders me, that artificially lengthens the color and the length of my beard, that calls me a monster.”

Ocasio-Cortez panel discussion with Zohran Mamdani

Critics, including Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon, have threatened to investigate Mamdani over previous race-based remarks. Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) wrote, “After 9/11 we said, 'Never Forget.' I think we sadly have forgotten.”

Zohran Mamdani at Mayoral Candidate Forum

Mamdani has faced personal attacks painting him as a public safety threat, particularly in Jewish communities. He responded by reaffirming his commitment to engage all New Yorkers.

Zohran Mamdani speaks at tenant issues rally

Mamdani said, “I think the better question is whether working people have the right to exist, because what we've seen in this city is that more and more working people are being pushed out.”

Zohran Mamdani at All Faiths Candidate Forum

Mamdani added, “My job is to lead this entire city. My job is to address those very concerns that New Yorkers may have, be it for whatever basis.”

Zohran Mamdani at NYC Pride Parade

Mamdani has acknowledged challenges from wealthy opponents like hedge fund manager Bill Ackman. He noted his commitment to his platform and pushed for collective action on economic issues.

Zohran Mamdani at Tesla protest

Mamdani stated, “I walked the length of Manhattan to speak to New Yorkers. And I did it because I think, though, the way that we defeat this bigotry is by showcasing just how small of a minority it actually represents.”

Grace Hall covers U.S. politics & news for content partner Modern Newsstand LLC.