New York City Mayoral Candidate Zohran Mamdani Targeted with Car Bomb Threat Amid Rising Islamophobia

New York City’s mayoral race took a disturbing turn this week as Zohran Mamdani, a Muslim candidate vying to become the city’s first Muslim mayor, became the target of a car bomb threat — despite the fact that Mamdani does not own a vehicle.

According to a statement released by Mamdani’s campaign office on Thursday, the New York Police Department’s Hate Crimes Task Force is actively investigating the alarming threat, which follows a string of death threats and racist messages directed at the candidate.

“After multiple death threats and racist messages, Assemblyman Mamdani’s office is participating in an ongoing investigation by the NYPD’s Hate Crimes Task Force,” the statement read. “While Zohran does not own a car, the violent and specific language of what appears to be a repeat caller is alarming and we are taking every precaution.”

The campaign attributed the hostile rhetoric to “millions of dollars…spent on dehumanizing, Islamophobic rhetoric designed to stoke division and hate,” condemning such violence and racism as having “no place in our politics.”

Rising Tensions in a Heated Campaign

Mamdani’s candidacy has not only energized progressive voters but also drawn sharp criticism from political opponents and commentators, particularly regarding his stance on Middle East politics. The criticism intensified in recent weeks amid escalating conflict between Israel and Iran.

At a recent mayoral debate, Mamdani affirmed, “Israel has a right to exist,” but stopped short of endorsing Israel’s status as a “Jewish state,” instead emphasizing his belief that it should be “a state with equal rights” for all.

This nuanced position sparked backlash from some quarters, including former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, who has been vocal in the mayoral race.

NYPD Investigation Underway

According to an NYPD spokesperson, the police received a report at 9:45 a.m. on Wednesday about four voicemails left by an unknown individual containing threatening anti-Muslim messages. The spokesperson did not confirm whether Mamdani himself filed the complaint.

“No arrests have been made at this time, and the investigation remains ongoing,” the department said.

Political Leaders Condemn Threats

Despite sharp political differences, several leading Democratic figures have come together to denounce the threats directed at Mamdani.

“This is an atrocious threat of political violence against Mr. Mamdani. It is unacceptable — I strongly condemn these threats and any others like them,” Cuomo wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “This has no place in our politics or our society. Thankfully, no one was harmed. This is a pivotal time in this country, and we need to tone down the rhetoric and focus on the people’s agenda.”

New York City Comptroller and fellow mayoral candidate Brad Lander also voiced strong condemnation.

“The hideous threats of Islamophobic violence against [Zohran Mamdani] are dangerous and morally reprehensible,” Lander said. “I condemn this behavior to the fullest extent. Hate has no place in New York City.”

A Campaign Under Fire

Zohran Mamdani’s campaign has faced relentless scrutiny not only for his policy positions but also because of his identity. As a Muslim candidate, he is navigating a political landscape fraught with rising Islamophobia nationwide.

The car bomb threat is only the latest in a series of violent and hateful incidents targeting Mamdani. His campaign has previously reported receiving multiple death threats, many of which have been racially charged and laced with anti-Muslim sentiment.

Despite the threats, Mamdani remains focused on his campaign promises to build a “safe and affordable New York,” emphasizing policies aimed at improving housing, education, and community safety.

The Bigger Picture: Islamophobia in American Politics

The threat against Mamdani is part of a troubling trend of Islamophobic attacks and rhetoric in American politics. Experts warn that such hostility not only endangers candidates but also undermines democratic processes by discouraging diverse voices from seeking public office.

“This kind of targeted hate is an attempt to silence underrepresented communities,” said Dr. Amina Hassan, a political science professor specializing in religious discrimination. “When candidates like Mamdani face threats simply because of their faith, it sends a chilling message to other potential leaders and voters alike.”

Community and Law Enforcement Responses

Community leaders and advocacy groups have rallied around Mamdani, condemning the threats and calling for stronger protections for candidates and public figures vulnerable to hate crimes.

The NYPD Hate Crimes Task Force’s involvement signals the seriousness with which law enforcement is treating the case. However, the persistence of such threats highlights ongoing challenges in preventing politically motivated hate crimes.

What’s Next in the Mayoral Race?

With less than a week until the New York City mayoral primary, the race remains highly competitive and closely watched. Mamdani’s campaign has gained momentum among progressive voters seeking bold changes, while critics continue to scrutinize his positions and background.

Meanwhile, the investigation into the car bomb threat continues. Authorities urge anyone with information to come forward, underscoring the importance of community vigilance in combating hate and violence.