New York, NY – October 28, 2025 – In the midst of a heated Democratic primary for New York City mayor, candidate Zohran Mamdani has moved to clarify an emotional story from a recent speech that drew accusations of fabrication from critics. He framed the backlash as an attempt to fuel Islamophobia ahead of his showdown with former Governor Andrew Cuomo.
During an October 24 address at a mosque in the Bronx, Mamdani recounted a poignant family experience from the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. He described how a female relative—whom he referred to as his aunt—lived in fear of anti-Muslim backlash, highlighting the broader climate of suspicion and hostility faced by Muslim communities in the U.S. at the time.
The anecdote quickly sparked controversy when opponents pointed out discrepancies: Mamdani’s biological aunt resided in Tanzania and did not wear a hijab, leading to claims that the story was fabricated to appeal to voters. Social media and conservative outlets amplified these allegations, questioning the progressive assemblyman’s credibility in a race already marked by sharp ideological divides.
In a statement released earlier today, Mamdani clarified that the “aunt” in question was actually his father’s cousin, Zehra Fuhi, a woman he has long considered family. “Family ties extend beyond strict bloodlines in many cultures, including my own,” Mamdani said, emphasizing that Fuhi’s experiences were genuine and reflective of the challenges of that era. He further accused his detractors of exploiting the misunderstanding to “stoke Islamophobia and division” in the primary—suggesting it was a tactic to undermine his campaign against Cuomo, who has positioned himself as a centrist alternative.
The incident unfolds against the backdrop of a surge in anti-Muslim hate crimes following 9/11, as documented by FBI data. Reports from the agency show a dramatic increase in such incidents in the months and years after the attacks, with assaults, vandalism, and discrimination targeting Muslim Americans rising sharply. Advocates for Muslim communities have long cited this period as a turning point in U.S. Islamophobia, lending credence to the historical context Mamdani invoked.
Mamdani, a Democratic Socialist and current New York State Assembly member representing parts of Queens, has built his mayoral platform on progressive issues such as affordable housing, police reform, and climate justice. His campaign has gained traction among younger voters and communities of color but faces stiff competition from Cuomo, whose political comeback has drawn both support and criticism amid his past controversies.
As the Democratic primary approaches, the episode underscores the high stakes and polarized nature of the race. Mamdani’s team has called for a focus on policy over personal attacks, while opponents maintain that transparency is essential for public trust.
