New York mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani is at the center of intense criticism after publicly endorsing Aber Kawas, a Palestinian-American activist running to succeed him in the 36th Assembly District. Kawas’s previous remarks about the September 11 terrorist attacks—comments linking the tragedy to “white supremacy” and the broader “American system”—have resurfaced, igniting heavy political backlash.
Controversial Remarks Resurface Amid Special Election Bid
According to a report by The New York Daily News, Kawas, who moved into the district only last year, is expected to run in the upcoming special election. However, renewed attention is now focused on a 2017 panel discussion she participated in at the Asian American Writers’ Workshop.
During that event, Kawas argued that the 9/11 attacks could not be viewed in isolation, claiming they were intertwined with systemic injustices within the United States.
Kawas’s Statement on 9/11
In her remarks, she said:
“The system of capitalism, racism, white supremacy, and Islamophobia has long been used to colonize lands and extract resources. What happened on 9/11 is part of a much deeper trajectory.”
She added that people from regions devastated by colonialism and war are often pressured to “apologize for an attack committed by a few individuals,” while those responsible for historic atrocities “never offer accountability.”
These comments have now resurfaced—fueling criticism of both Kawas and Mamdani.
Mamdani Faces Bipartisan Outrage
Mamdani, often described as a left-wing firebrand, is a prominent member of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA)—the same political organization to which Kawas belongs. His endorsement quickly sparked reactions across the political spectrum.
Critics online questioned the judgment behind his support:
-
“What was Zohran thinking?” one commentator asked.
-
Another accused several emerging political candidates of “clearly hating this country and seeking to tear down its foundations.”
Others even drew a parallel to Mamdani’s past association with leftist streamer Hasan Piker, who once controversially stated that America “deserved 9/11.”
Internal Party Rivalry Intensifies
Interestingly, Kawas’s strongest competition may come from within her own political circle. Her main opponent is reportedly Brian Romero, also a DSA member and deputy chief of staff to Assembly member Jessica González-Rojas, who is planning a State Senate campaign next year.
Both Mamdani and Kawas have been contacted for comment, though no public statement had been released at the time of reporting.
Mamdani Attempts to Reset Relationship With President Trump
Amid the controversy, Mamdani has signaled a surprising shift in tone toward President Donald Trump, despite the pair’s long-running political conflict.
Mamdani confirmed in an interview with NBC New York that he intends to reach out to Trump before taking office:
“It’s important to be willing to work with anyone if it benefits New Yorkers,” he said.
“If President Trump wants to talk about lowering the cost of living or groceries, I’m ready.”
He also stressed he would oppose any federal policies that negatively impact New Yorkers, especially around immigration—an area where he sharply criticizes Trump’s views.
Long-Standing Tensions With Trump
Relations between the two figures have been rocky. During the mayoral race:
-
Trump endorsed former Governor Andrew Cuomo in an attempt to block Mamdani’s win.
-
He warned that Mamdani’s leadership would turn New York into an “economic and social disaster.”
-
He repeatedly threatened to withhold federal funding if Mamdani were elected.
Following his victory, Mamdani fired back during his acceptance speech, saying:
“Donald Trump, since I know you’re watching—I have four words: turn the volume up!”
Yet, in a recent statement, Trump adopted a more measured tone, saying:
“Let’s see how a communist does in New York. We’ll help him. We want the city to succeed.”
Looking Ahead
Mamdani also revealed that he has been coordinating with New York Governor Kathy Hochul in preparation for potential challenges involving the federal administration. Both leaders are reportedly discussing strategies to safeguard New Yorkers should political tensions escalate.
The unfolding situation—spanning controversial endorsements, ideological conflicts, and shifting alliances—continues to generate intense public debate as the special election approaches.
