Jeffries Endorses Socialist Mamdani Amid Dems' Internal GOP Criticism

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has endorsed Zohran Mamdani, a self-described socialist and Democratic nominee for New York City mayor, sparking significant criticism from Republicans and some Democrats. Critics, including Rep. Josh Gottheimer and Rep. Nicole Malliotakis, accuse Jeffries and other Democratic leaders like Governor Kathy Hochul of allowing the far-left to take over the Democratic Party, arguing that Mamdani's socialist agenda threatens moderate and centrist values. Jeffries defended his endorsement by highlighting Mamdani's focus on affordability and commitment to all New Yorkers. The endorsement has political implications beyond New York, with Republicans viewing Mamdani as a liability that could impact Democratic candidates nationwide in upcoming elections. Despite the backlash, Mamdani has the support of prominent Democrats such as Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Bernie Sanders, and Kamala Harris, reflecting the growing influence of the party's progressive wing. This internal party conflict underscores the ongoing struggle over the Democratic Party's ideological direction heading into future election cycles.