Zohran Mamdani’s refusal to condemn the slogan “Globalize the Intifada” has reignited a fierce legal and political storm in New York. Critics claim his defense of the phrase ties him to extremist rhetoric linked to past violent uprisings, raising questions about his oath of allegiance and possible misrepresentation during naturalization. While the Department of Justice has not announced an investigation, the controversy underscores the thin line between protected political speech and expressions that could be construed as ideological support for violence. As Mamdani positions himself as the progressive face of New York politics, his words now serve as evidence in a broader debate over citizenship, loyalty, and the constitutional limits of dissent.

In 2020, amid the social unrest following George Floyd’s death, Mamdani declared the NYPD a “rogue agency” and demanded its defunding. Five years later, he apologized to police officers on live television. His earlier statements — from questioning the role of prisons to suggesting housing reforms that could “abolish private property” — resurfaced during the 2025 mayoral race, prompting both condemnation and defense. As critics call him inconsistent and supporters frame his evolution as growth, Mamdani’s record has become a flashpoint in New York’s political landscape.In 2020, amid the social unrest following George Floyd’s death, Mamdani declared the NYPD a “rogue agency” and demanded its defunding. Five years later, he apologized to police officers on live television. His earlier statements — from questioning the role of prisons to suggesting housing reforms that could “abolish private property” — resurfaced during the 2025 mayoral race, prompting both condemnation and defense. As critics call him inconsistent and supporters frame his evolution as growth, Mamdani’s record has become a flashpoint in New York’s political landscape.