Zohran Mamdani’s 9/11 Aunt Claim Sparks Controversy in NYC Mayor Race

New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani is facing significant backlash. The controversy stems from a personal story he shared about the September 11 attacks. He made the remarks during a recent press event in The Bronx.

Mamdani stated that his aunt stopped riding the subway after 9/11. He claimed she “did not feel safe in her hijab.” This narrative was quickly challenged on social media and by political opponents.

Fact-Checking the Personal Anecdote

According to social media users, Mamdani’s only biological aunt lived in Tanzania in 2001. They also noted that she did not wear a hijab. This directly contradicted the candidate’s emotional account.

The story gained rapid traction online. Critics accused Mamdani of fabricating a story for political sympathy. The incident put his campaign on the defensive during a critical election period.

Mamdani’s Clarification and Campaign Response

Amid the growing criticism, Mamdani offered a clarification. He stated he was referring to a distant relative, a “fuhi,” not a legal aunt. This Urdu/Hindi term means paternal aunt.

Mamdani accused his opponents of Islamophobia. He argued the real issue was the prejudice faced by Muslim New Yorkers. His campaign tried to reframe the controversy as a diversion from substantive policy debates.

The response from political figures was swift. Vice President JD Vance mocked the remark on social media. He suggested Mamdani was portraying his aunt as the “real victim of 9/11.”

Potential Impact on the Tight Mayoral Election

This controversy emerges as early voting is already underway. Personal credibility is a major factor for voters. The incident could sway undecided voters, particularly those deeply affected by the 9/11 attacks.

Recent polling from the Manhattan Institute shows a competitive race. Mamdani currently leads with 43% support. His main rivals are closing the gap.

The controversy risks overshadowing Mamdani’s policy platform. His proposals include rent freezes and free bus fares. If elected on November 5, he would become New York City’s first Muslim mayor.

This controversy highlights the intense scrutiny facing political candidates. The Zohran Mamdani 9/11 aunt story has become a pivotal campaign issue. The final outcome will be decided by NYC voters on November 5.

Thought you’d like to know-

Who is Zohran Mamdani?

Zohran Mamdani is a current New York City mayoral candidate. He is a progressive Democrat running on a platform of economic reform. If elected, he would be the city’s first Muslim mayor.

What did Mamdani originally claim about his aunt?

He stated his aunt stopped using the subway after the September 11 attacks. He said she feared for her safety while wearing a hijab. This claim was later challenged by fact-checkers.

How did Mamdani explain the discrepancy?

He clarified he meant a distant relative, not a biological aunt. He used the Urdu/Hindi term “fuhi” to describe the relationship. His campaign accused critics of Islamophobia.

What is the current status of the NYC mayor’s race?

Early voting is currently underway. Recent polls show a competitive race with Mamdani in the lead. The election will be finalized on November 5.

Why is this controversy significant for the election?

Personal anecdotes are often used to build voter trust. The challenge to his story questions his credibility. It could impact undecided voters in a tight race.

Trusted Sources
Hindustan Times, Associated Press, Reuters