In today’s polarized political landscape, uniting different factions is a remarkable feat. Zohran Mamdani, the socialist assemblyman who recently secured the Democratic primary for New York City mayor, has managed to do just that. Since his victory on June 24, he has faced a storm of online backlash, particularly from influencers within the self-described manosphere.
This group perceives movements related to feminism, wokeness, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion as significant threats. Their ongoing attacks against Mamdani hinge on two main assertions: at 33 years old, he is a “dangerous” socialist who will ultimately ruin New York. With a Democratic candidate favored to win in a deep blue city, the urgency of these attacks only intensifies.
The operation to derail Mamdani kicked off at the highest levels of the Republican party. “The Democrats have crossed the line,” President Donald Trump stated on Truth Social shortly after the primary. He labeled Mamdani a “100% Communist Lunatic,” a campaign that appears to rally the troops for a coordinated effort.
With a Republican victory seeming unlikely, billionaire Bill Ackman has stepped in, pledging to fund a “centrist” candidate to challenge Mamdani in November. In an eye-catching X post, he portrayed this as a heroic call to action to save New York from impending doom.
I awoke this morning gravely concerned about New York City. I thought “What has NYC become that an avowed socialist who has supported defunding the police, whose solution to lowering food prices is city-owned supermarkets…”
— Bill Ackman (@BillAckman) June 26, 2025
Mamdani, a Ugandan-born, naturalized Muslim American, champions a progressive platform that includes free public transportation, affordable childcare, and wealth taxes. His surprising win over Andrew Cuomo signifies a generational shift within the Democratic Party, energizing grassroots support, particularly among Muslim, South Asian, and immigrant communities. However, it has raised alarms in more conservative circles.
In the realm of the manosphere, Mamdani is labeled an anti-white racist. Conservative activist Charlie Kirk pointed to a 2013 tweet from Mamdani that critiqued systemic inequality, asserting that “Mamdani has been posting racist, anti-white musings for over a decade.” Such rhetoric compounds, as his post drew criticism and calls for deportation.
Mamdani has been posting racist, anti-white musings for over a decade. I guess white New Yorkers hate themselves so much they’ll vote for him anyway. Sad!! https://t.co/GXyg5ohQae
— Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) June 27, 2025
The tweet in question satirically critiques capitalism, arguing that the so-called “invisible hand of the market” is not as neutral as often depicted. However, such nuances rarely find sympathy in groups intent on maintaining a strong narrative against Mamdani.
Other conservative voices joined the fray, including Ben Shapiro, who humorously suggested that wealthy New Yorkers would flee to Florida due to the supposed downward spiral of the city. Pundit Matt Walsh explicitly stated that Mamdani’s win spells doom for New York City, emphasizing his Muslim identity to amplify his argument.
New Yorkers Embrace The Destruction Of Their City By Voting For Socialist Muslim Mayor. https://t.co/aUQJILuTs9
— Matt Walsh (@MattWalshBlog) June 27, 2025
Others chimed in as well, including Congressman Mike Lawler who remarked that “the problem with socialism: eventually you run out of other people’s money,” predicting disaster under Mamdani’s leadership.
The problem with socialism: eventually you run out of other people’s money. New York City is headed for disaster if Zohran becomes Mayor. https://t.co/4V3vwEx7X3
— Mike Lawler (@lawler4ny) June 27, 2025
Interestingly, even some liberals have criticized Mamdani’s ideas. Former Treasury Secretary Larry Summers weighed in on his housing policies, arguing that rent control is “the second best way to destroy a city, after bombing,” asserting it would worsen the issues around housing affordability in New York.
Rent control is the second-best way to destroy a city, after bombing. I think this is likely to exacerbate rather than improve issues around housing affordability in New York. This would be a gross policy error. https://twitter.com/LHSummers/status/1938746856000856470
— Lawrence H. Summers (@LHSummers) June 27, 2025
As the November election approaches, attacks are likely to escalate, focusing on Mamdani’s Muslim identity, socialist policies, and accusations of racism. The manosphere is employing a mix of anti-Muslim and anti-immigrant rhetoric to undermine his campaign.
What are the main concerns around Zohran Mamdani’s candidacy?
Many opponents express fear that his socialist policies will lead to economic instability in New York City. His critics argue that his approach will chase away wealth and investment, causing lasting damage.
How does Mamdani’s background influence his political platform?
Mamdani’s experiences as a Ugandan-born, naturalized citizen fuel his perspective on issues like housing, transportation, and care services, aiming to uplift marginalized communities.
What role does social media play in the attacks against Mamdani?
Social media amplifies the reach of Mamdani’s critics, allowing for coordinated campaigns that utilize impactful statements, memes, and public figures to attract attention and sway public opinion.
What are Mamdani’s key policy proposals?
His platform includes fare-free public transportation, affordable childcare initiatives, wealth taxation, and rent control measures, gaining traction among progressive activists.
What implications could Mamdani’s election have on New York City?
Many see his potential leadership as a shift towards progressive policies, while opponents warn of economic downturn and increased crime, raising significant concerns for the city’s future.
In a landscape marked by division, Mamdani’s story illustrates the complex interplay of politics today. Explore more about this significant election and its broader implications for the American political landscape by visiting Moyens I/O.