The voters of New York City have spoken. Zohran Mamdani has won the mayoral election.
Many Jews in New York — and across the country — voiced deep concern about Mamdani’s record, his statements on Israel, and the antisemitism they felt his rhetoric normalized. Jewish leaders in New York City spoke out clearly and courageously, and many of us across the country stood in solidarity with them.
For those of us who raised our voices, for those who voted for another candidate, today brings very heavy emotions. It’s hard to comprehend that more than a million New Yorkers chose someone whose ideas, we believe, put the Jewish community of NYC in danger. It is a difficult day.
As we wrestle with these emotions, we must remember that while New York City is home to the largest Jewish population outside of Israel, Jews remain a small minority within the city. There were other issues that motivated voters — issues unrelated to antisemitism or Israel — that appealed to many New Yorkers, even as many of us saw them as unrealistic or potentially harmful to the city’s well-being — and far less urgent than our own concerns for Jewish safety and security.
It’s also true that some Jewish voters, particularly younger ones, were drawn to Mamdani’s message. While this troubles many in our community, it’s important that we listen to these voices — not to agree, but to understand. Listening deeply is how we learn, and how we strengthen the Jewish community for the future. This is no easy work — but it’s necessary.
Despite the disappointment and concern many feel about this election, the Jewish community of New York remains strong and resilient. Its leaders are vocal, organized, and impossible to ignore. The mayor-elect and other elected officials will have to engage with these leaders and take their concerns seriously.
And Jews across the country will continue to stand in solidarity with New York City’s Jewish community — supporting them, amplifying them, and working with them to ensure their safety and that their voices are heard.
With a competitive governor’s race ahead in New York — one that includes Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul, who endorsed Mamdani, and Representative Elise Stefanik, a Republican and a strong ally of the Jewish people — it will be important to watch how Mamdani’s election shapes the political and moral landscape of New York in the months ahead.
Stay tuned and stay strong.
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