Bruce Blakeman, a Republican contender for governor, delivered sharp criticism of Mayor Zohran Mamdani during a Sunday rally in Queens aimed at combating antisemitism. The event attracted approximately 150 attendees.
“Changing the definition of antisemitism was one of his initial moves as mayor. With all the issues facing the city, was that really the priority?” Blakeman remarked to The Post, referencing Mamdani’s approach to ongoing tensions in New York City, notably highlighted by a recent antisemitic protest at Park East Synagogue.
Blakeman continued by attacking Mamdani’s character, stating, “He harbors ill intentions. His actions are un-American and antisemitic. If he doesn’t change, the city’s residents—good people from all walks of life—will stand against him.”
He emphasized the city’s diversity, stating, “New York is a melting pot of races, religions, and cultures. Everyone deserves to coexist peacefully, not be divided by those in power.”
The rally, held at Yellowstone Park in Forest Hills, was organized in response to what a press release described as a “disturbing” rise in hate crimes in the area.
Adding to the criticism, comedian Zach Sage-Fox, speaking on Blakeman’s behalf, condemned Mamdani’s wife, Rama Duwaji, for her controversial social media activity. In March, she was found to have liked posts celebrating the violent events of October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched an attack on Israel.
“I’d rather him be honest. At least his wife doesn’t play both sides. At least she says who she is. Her silence is complicity and at least we know what we’re dealing with,” he said, drawing a contrast with her husband the mayor.
“But no, the two-faced stuff, it’s BS and we’re not going to stand for it. We’re not going to stand for it,” Sage-Fox said.
“We have a person running this city who takes no accountability for the rise of antisemitism that he helped create over his political career. I’m sorry, but it’s the truth — he’s playing both sides of the coin.”
