NYC Mayoral Debate: Israel and Antisemitism Take Center Stage
The first NYC mayoral debate saw a clash of opinions on Israel, particularly regarding its right to exist as a Jewish state. Zohran Mamdani, a leading candidate, refused to acknowledge Israel's right to exist as a Jewish state, sparking criticism from his rivals.
<img src="https://static-cdn.toi-media.com/www/uploads/2025/06/AP25156035144910-e1749097970668.jpg" alt="Democratic mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani">Andrew Cuomo, the frontrunner, directly challenged Mamdani's stance, highlighting the significance of this issue in the debate. Other candidates, including Scott Stringer and Brad Lander, expressed their support for Israel and addressed the rising concerns of antisemitism in the city.
The debate also touched upon the Trump administration's actions, with candidates unanimously opposing the move to revoke Columbia University's accreditation and the arrest of student activist Mahmoud Khalil. The candidates' responses highlighted the broader political climate and its impact on the Jewish community.
Cuomo and Tilson notably wore yellow ribbons in solidarity with hostages in Gaza. The debate underscored the importance of the Jewish vote in the upcoming primary, with Jews making up approximately 16% of the electorate.
The differing views on Israel and the rise of antisemitism dominated much of the discussion, making it a pivotal moment in the mayoral race.
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