A Republican councilwoman in New York City is raising alarms about the upcoming mayoral election. Inna Vernikov, who represents Brooklyn’s District 48 and is the council’s minority whip, expressed her concerns about Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani. She claims that many Jewish residents feel "petrified" at the thought of Mamdani winning in November.
Vernikov, who flipped her district from Democrat to Republican in 2021, spoke with Fox News Digital about her worries. She accused Mamdani of wanting to "globalize the intifada," a term that refers to Palestinian uprisings against Israel. Vernikov emphasized that this sentiment is alarming, especially in a city with the largest Jewish population in the United States. She noted that many Jewish residents are considering leaving New York City due to their fears.
Mamdani has faced criticism for not condemning the phrase "globalize the intifada." Vernikov pointed out the potential dangers of such rhetoric, linking it to violence and riots that have occurred in the past. She expressed disbelief that the Democratic Party continues to support Mamdani despite his controversial statements. Vernikov questioned whether the same support would be given if Mamdani held similar views about other communities, highlighting what she sees as a double standard.
Mamdani has received endorsements from prominent Democrats, including Rep. Jerry Nadler and Sen. Chuck Schumer. He is known for founding the Students for Justice in Palestine chapter at Bowdoin College and has previously led rallies supporting the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement against Israel. His father, Mahmood Mamdani, is a professor who has advocated for a "third intifada."
The term "intifada" refers to two significant Palestinian uprisings against Israeli rule, with the first occurring from 1987 to 1990 and the second from 2000 to 2005. The violence during the second intifada resulted in the deaths of many civilians, raising concerns about the implications of Mamdani’s statements.
Vernikov’s comments reflect a broader anxiety within some communities about the direction of the city and the implications of the upcoming election. As the election approaches, the debate over Mamdani’s views and their impact on New York City’s diverse population is likely to intensify.