Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
On a recent episode of “Late Show,” host Stephen Colbert engaged New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani in a candid discussion about his views on Israel and rising antisemitism in the metropolis. Mamdani, a Democratic Socialist and current state assembly member, is experiencing a notable surge in the polls ahead of the upcoming ranked-choice primary.
Alongside his rival Brad Lander, Mamdani appeared on the CBS late-night program. Both candidates have made headlines as they vie for second place in the primary, hoping to block former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo from claiming the Democratic nomination.
During the interview, Colbert pressed the candidates about the ongoing conflict involving Israel and Iran, directly questioning whether they believe Israel has the right to exist as a nation.
“I support the vision of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state,” Lander stated, expressing his sentiment on the issue.
Colbert then turned to Mamdani, asking the 33-year-old candidate the same question. “Does the State of Israel have the right to exist?” he inquired.
Mamdani replied without hesitation, “Yes. Like all nations, I believe it has the right to exist and also a responsibility to uphold international law.”
Colbert, emphasizing his neutrality in the race, acknowledged the palpable tension surrounding Mamdani’s candidacy. He cited fears within the Jewish community regarding antisemitism, questioning how Mamdani’s potential mayorship could exacerbate these concerns.
“Many are upset by some of the things you’ve said in the past,” Colbert pointedly remarked. “They believe that your mayorship would lead to increased antisemitism, making their lives more dangerous.”
Mamdani responded empathetically, recognizing the roots of such fears. “I know where that fear is coming from,” he said. “It’s a fear based on horrific attacks in Washington, D.C., and Boulder, Colorado, as well as sentiments expressed by New Yorkers.”
He recalled a chilling encounter with a friend who, after the tragic events of October 7, experienced anxiety while attending synagogue. Mamdani also mentioned a Jewish man from Williamsburg who felt compelled to lock his door, something he had never needed to do before.
To address concerns about antisemitism, Mamdani emphasized his commitment to a significant increase in funding for the Department of Community Safety’s anti-hate crime initiatives, proposing an eightfold budget expansion. “Antisemitism is not simply a topic for discussion; it is an urgent issue we must confront,” he declared. “We must ensure there is no tolerance for hate in this city, this country, or across the globe.”
Colbert interjected to clarify, “And no justification for violence of any kind?”
“Absolutely not,” Mamdani affirmed. “There is no place for violence anywhere.” He acknowledged the necessity for New Yorkers to find ways to navigate their differences respectfully.
Emerging as a compelling voice in this heated debate, Mamdani has openly discussed his views on various aspects of the Israeli government’s policies. While he faces scrutiny, he remains confident in his ability to connect with constituents across the spectrum on issues related to Israel.
Mamdani, who immigrated to New York City at the age of seven from Uganda and South Africa, shared a notable interaction with an older Jewish woman who attended a Democratic Club forum. She conveyed her disagreement on specific issues yet expressed her intent to rank him on her ballot for other shared beliefs.
He remarked, “I know many New Yorkers disagree with me regarding the Israeli government’s policies. However, we share a foundation rooted in our common humanity.”
Building on this sentiment, Mamdani noted that his conclusions align with various Israeli historians and even addressed statements made by former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert concerning the situation in Gaza.
Colbert further pressed Mamdani, asking how he hopes to bridge divides between the Jewish and Muslim communities if he is elected mayor. Mamdani emphasized the importance of embracing humanity in their dialogues.
“For many who grew up in New York City, diversity is a cause for celebration,” he said. “Years ago, I managed a campaign for a Jewish candidate running for State Senate. After giving a speech at a mosque in Bay Ridge, an older Palestinian man approached him, fondly referring to him as ‘Cousins.’ This instance reflects the potential for building shared communities in the city.”
In closing, Mamdani expressed a vision of unity, inspired by the various narratives in New York City. “We are all tied together as one,” he concluded.
