Zohran Mamdani Angers Leftists With Hakeem Jeffries Support
Mamdani kept his support for Jeffries as House speaker, drawing criticism from progressives over his meeting with Jared Kushner.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has defended his support for House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, reiterating his stance even after Jeffries faced criticism for a private meeting with Jared Kushner, President Trump's son-in-law and White House envoy. The controversy has caused frustration among left-leaning Democrats, who argue that Mamdani's backing is problematic.
Social media posts from figures like Kshama Sawant and Mehdi Hasan highlight the divide, with Sawant accusing Mamdani of supporting a "genocidal" Jeffries and Hasan stating that neither Jeffries nor Chuck Schumer are fit to lead under a Trump second-term. Progressive City Council member Chi Ossé pointed out a perceived double standard within the party, questioning why progressives are scrutinized while the establishment works with Jeffries.
Briahna Joy Gray, a podcaster and former Bernie Sanders spokesperson, challenged Mamdani's defenders by asking if meeting with Kushner makes Jeffries a collaborator, does unqualified backing from Mamdani make her one too? The meeting between Jeffries and Kushner reportedly focused on housing, immigration, and the cost of living, with Kushner suggesting a follow-up with White House Chief of Staff Susan Rice.
While some Democrats defended the meeting as a right to discuss ideas, others criticized it, arguing that it could bolster Trump's supporters. Jeffries' stance on Israel and support for continued U.S. aid to the country have also contributed to tensions within the Democratic Party.
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