Mamdani Faces Backlash Over Hanukkah Video

New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani is under scrutiny after posting a parody video of Indian men celebrating Hanukkah, which some Jewish advocacy groups have labeled offensive and trivializing of Jewish traditions. The video, made by a Sikh-Canadian comedy group, was shared by Mamdani with a festive caption, prompting condemnation from organizations like StopAntisemitism. This incident compounds existing criticism of Mamdani's support for the BDS movement, his refusal to explicitly recognize Israel as a Jewish state, and his reluctance to denounce the slogan 'globalize the intifada.' Prominent Democrats and pro-Israel activists have demanded that Mamdani clarify his positions, citing concerns about the impact on Jewish communities and Democratic Party dynamics. Some Jewish Democratic leaders contend that while Mamdani's win is not a national disaster, it does increase challenges for mainstream Democrats seeking to reassure Jewish voters. The controversy highlights intensified debate within the Democratic Party over Israel and antisemitism as Mamdani advances in his campaign.