Vice President JD Vance Criticizes NYC Mayoral Candidate Zohran Mamdani's 9/11 Remarks Amid Tight Race

Vice President J.D. Vance sharply criticized New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani for his remarks about 9/11, highlighting Mamdani's focus on his aunt's experience of Islamophobia rather than the nearly 3,000 victims of the terrorist attacks. Mamdani had spoken about his aunt ceasing to take the subway after 9/11 due to fear while wearing a hijab, aiming to address ongoing prejudice against Muslims in the city. Vance mocked Mamdani's comments on social media, suggesting Mamdani implied his aunt was the "real victim" of 9/11, which many conservatives, including commentator Scott Jennings, viewed as a disrespectful omission of the actual victims. Mamdani also condemned Islamophobia and emphasized the sacrifices of Muslim New Yorkers, but his remarks sparked backlash amid his lead in the mayoral race. The controversy intensified following former Governor Andrew Cuomo's criticism of Mamdani's leadership during crisis situations. The exchange reflects the heightened tensions and political stakes as early voting proceeds in the New York City mayoral election.