Why This Columbia Student Finds NYC Mayoral Frontrunner Zohran Mamdani a Cause for Concern
There’s a lot of buzz around the New York City mayoral race, and one candidate—Zohran Mamdani—is getting a serious spotlight. The 33-year-old Democratic Socialist and current assemblyman, born in Kampala, Uganda, is leading the pack as the city heads into November’s election. But while some are thrilled by his upset primary win over former Governor Andrew Cuomo, not everyone is on board. A Jewish sophomore at Columbia University, TJ Katz, recently spoke out, telling Fox News Digital that a Mamdani victory could spell trouble for Jewish students—not only at Columbia but across the entire city.
A Campus Feeling Unsafe?
TJ Katz didn’t hold back. When asked about what Mamdani as mayor might mean for Jewish students like himself, Katz described a growing unease. “For my own beliefs and my own safety on campus, it’s scary,” he said. “It’s not like I think he’ll suddenly turn New York City into a hostile place overnight. But the real concern is his weak stance on condemning hate. That kind of silence could embolden people to do terrible things.”
That subtle distinction—between outright hostility and passive inaction—is exactly what worries Katz. He fears that a mayor who doesn't firmly stand against antisemitism could indirectly make campuses and neighborhoods less safe.
New York's Jewish Community in the Spotlight
It’s worth noting that New York City is home to the largest Jewish population outside of Israel. This vibrant community, deeply woven into the fabric of the city, is watching the race closely. Katz called Mamdani’s approach to protecting this community “definitely worrisome.” “For him not to actively protect the Jewish population, which is such a strong and vibrant part of New York, that’s upsetting,” Katz added.
This concern isn’t just isolated to Katz or Columbia students. Across the country, young Jewish voters and students are starting to shift their political loyalties. Where once the Democratic Party enjoyed strong support from this demographic, many now feel that candidates like Mamdani and endorsements from progressive icons such as Senator Elizabeth Warren signal a change. Warren herself, when asked by a Fox News reporter whether socialist candidates like Mamdani represent the future of the Democratic Party, replied with a confident “you bet.”
The Political Shift Among Young Jewish Voters
This shift has been evident in recent elections. During the 2024 cycle, President Donald Trump notably increased his share of Jewish voters—a demographic that had traditionally leaned Democratic. Several factors seem to be driving this change, especially concerns about rising antisemitism and how candidates address it.
A key player in this conversation is the Israel on Campus Coalition (ICC), which recently held its national convention in Washington, D.C. This event attracted hundreds of young pro-Israel Jewish students from across the U.S. They gathered to discuss the challenges they face, especially safety concerns on campuses as the new school year approaches.
An ICC senior advisor spoke with Fox News Digital about this emerging trend, noting a clear swing toward pro-Israel and conservative values among young Jewish voters. According to the advisor, President Trump’s approach to mitigating the volatile situation in the Middle East, along with his efforts to partner with universities on combating antisemitism, have resonated with these voters.
Active Voices on Campus
The ICC advisor emphasized that Jewish students today are more vocal and active than ever when it comes to standing up for their beliefs, especially on college campuses. This ties back to Katz’s experience, who also observed a stronger pro-Israel presence among students.
“There’s no doubt that from the most liberal young Jewish voter to the most conservative, everyone is feeling a shift to the right,” Katz said. “If any administration can prove that it will actually protect Jewish students on campuses and Jewish people in every facet of life, that’s where Jewish voters will move.”
The Candidate at the Center of It All
Zohran Mamdani, a practicing Twelver Shia Muslim, burst onto the mayoral scene after his surprising victory in the June Democratic primary. His campaign has energized many progressive voters, but his ability to unify all New Yorkers—including minority communities like Jews—remains uncertain.
Currently, Mamdani is set to face off against former Governor Cuomo, now running as an independent, and incumbent Mayor Eric Adams in the November election.
Fox News Digital reached out to Mamdani for comment, but he did not respond in time for publication.
What’s at Stake?
This mayoral race isn’t just a political contest; it’s about the safety, inclusion, and future of some of New York City’s most diverse communities. For Jewish students like TJ Katz, the question is clear: Will the city’s next mayor protect them and their rights, or will a weak condemnation of hate put them at risk?
As the city’s largest Jewish population outside Israel looks on, Katz’s voice highlights the deep anxieties felt by many. And with young Jewish voters showing signs of reevaluating their traditional political loyalties, this election might be a defining moment for New York’s political landscape and its communities.
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