AOC and Zohran Mamdani Face Nazi Salute Allegations After NYC Rally Gesture

New York Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani are confronting intense criticism. The controversy stems from a photograph taken at a weekend rally in Queens. The image shows the two politicians making a raised-arm gesture that has sparked online outrage and accusations.The rally, also featuring Senator Bernie Sanders, was intended to bolster Mamdani’s campaign. According to NBC News, the event framed the upcoming election as a direct battle against the influence of former President Donald Trump. The subsequent online firestorm, however, has shifted the conversation entirely.

Social Media Erupts Over Rally Photo

Mamdani originally posted the photo on his social media account. The caption read, “Thank you, New York City. Now let’s win.” In the picture, both he and Ocasio-Cortez are seen with their right arms extended and angled downward, with their palms open.The gesture was quickly flagged by prominent conservative figures. Senator Ted Cruz directly questioned the move on social media. He asked his followers, “Are those Nazi salutes?” Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk amplified the post. Musk replied succinctly, “Sure looks like it.” This ignited a wave of commentary across platforms.

Rally Speeches Focused on Political Battle

The rally itself was a significant show of force for Mamdani’s progressive campaign. Speaking to a large crowd, Mamdani outlined his vision for the city. He positioned himself as a fighter against corrupt politicians and their billionaire backers.His speech took direct aim at independent candidate Andrew Cuomo. Mamdani declared they were taking the city back. He stated his words should ring loud enough for Cuomo and his “puppet master in the White House” to hear. Ocasio-Cortez also spoke, framing the local race as a microcosm of the national political struggle. She condemned what she labeled an authoritarian presidency fueled by bigotry.

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The incident underscores how quickly a single image can dominate a political news cycle, drawing fierce backlash and forcing campaigns onto the defensive over the resulting Nazi salute allegations.

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What was the context of the controversial photo?

The photo was taken at a political rally in Queens, New York. Zohran Mamdani and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez were addressing a crowd in support of Mamdani’s mayoral campaign. The gesture occurred as they stood alongside Senator Bernie Sanders.

Who accused them of making a Nazi salute?

Senator Ted Cruz was one of the first major figures to publicly question the gesture. His social media post directly asked if they were performing Nazi salutes. Elon Musk then agreed with Cruz’s assessment, amplifying the allegation to his vast audience.

What did the speakers actually say at the rally?

According to NBC News, the speeches focused on a progressive political agenda. Mamdani criticized Andrew Cuomo and Donald Trump’s influence. Ocasio-Cortez stated that electing Mamdani would send a strong message against the former president’s political movement.

Has there been an official response from AOC or Mamdani?

As of this reporting, neither Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez nor Zohran Mamdani has publicly addressed the specific allegations. The controversy has so far played out on social media through commentary from their political opponents and online users.

Why is this gesture considered so controversial?

The straight-arm salute is inextricably linked to the Nazi Party of Germany. It is a widely recognized symbol of hate, antisemitism, and white supremacy. Its use, whether intended or not, immediately draws strong condemnation and public scrutiny.