New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani faces criticism after a 2023 social media post about the 9/11 attacks resurfaced. In it, he mentioned the ongoing deaths and suffering caused by the subsequent wars. Mamdani wrote in 2023, “Nearly 3,000 New Yorkers died on 9/11; 22 years later, the death hasn’t stopped. We mourn our neighbors who died that day. The hundreds of thousands who died in the wars that followed. The unknown millions injured & displaced. In their memory, we work toward a better world.”
Some 9/11 families have asked Mamdani not to attend the city’s 9/11 commemoration. This follows backlash over his previous interview with Hasan Piker, who controversially stated “America deserved 9/11” in 2019. Mamdani initially did not criticize Piker’s comments but later labeled them “objectionable and reprehensible.” Critics argue Mamdani used the occasion to highlight post-9/11 wars, omitting clear emphasis on the attackers.
Marc Thiessen, a former Pentagon occupant during the attacks, condemned Mamdani, stating, “As someone who was in the Pentagon when the planes hit, this is absolutely disgraceful. You have no business ever setting foot at Ground Zero, much less on 9/11. If you dare show up, I hope you are greeted with such a Bronx cheer that you slink away in shame.” New York City councilwoman Inna Vernikov also criticized Mamdani. Florida Rep. Randy Fine recalled the incident and made a strong remark on the city’s choice of mayor.
Many voices expressed their disapproval online. Ex-NYPD officer Paul Mauro suggested Mamdani avoid the commemoration. Michael La Rosa, former First Lady Jill Biden’s spokesperson, reacted with disbelief. Rep. Nancy Mace and “Big Weekend Show” co-host Joey Jones condemned his remarks, emphasizing the gravity of the terrorist acts.
Despite criticism, Mamdani intends to attend the commemoration event. He plans to honor victims, survivors, and first responders alongside other officials including Vice President JD Vance and former presidents such as Biden and Bush.
A petition by victims’ families on Change.org urges Mamdani to reconsider his participation. They question whether his presence aligns with the event’s intent and expectations of affected families. Ashley J. DiMella from Fox News Digital covered the story and attempted to contact Mamdani’s office for comments.