NYC Mayor Faces Criticism Over 9/11 Remarks

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani is under increased scrutiny after a 2023 social media post commemorating the 9/11 attacks resurfaced online. In his post, Mamdani honored the victims of 9/11 and also mentioned the extensive suffering caused by subsequent wars. He stated, “Nearly 3,000 New Yorkers died on 9/11; 22 years later, the death hasn’t stopped. We mourn our neighbors who died that day. The hundreds of thousands who died in the wars that followed. The unknown millions injured & displaced. In their memory, we work toward a better world.”

The post has sparked a strong reaction from some 9/11 families, who have called on the mayor not to attend New York City’s 9/11 commemoration. The controversy further intensified after Mamdani interviewed Hasan Piker, who made controversial statements about 9/11. Mamdani initially did not condemn Piker’s remarks but later described them as “objectionable and reprehensible.”

Critics argue that Mamdani’s comments shift focus from the perpetrators of 9/11 by emphasizing the aftermath of the attacks. Notably, several political figures and media personalities have denounced Mamdani’s actions. Marc Thiessen, who was present at the Pentagon on 9/11, expressed his disapproval, saying, “This is absolutely disgraceful. You have no business ever setting foot at Ground Zero, much less on 9/11.” New York City council member Inna Vernikov questioned the omission of the attack’s perpetrators, and Florida Rep. Randy Fine accused the mayor of failing to call out terrorism.

The backlash has included calls for Mamdani to avoid the commemorative event altogether. Retired officers from the Port Authority and others have aligned with these sentiments. Paul Mauro, a Fox News contributor and former NYPD officer, criticized Mamdani’s approach, recommending he not attend any future ceremonies.

Former first lady spokesperson Michael La Rosa and Rep. Nancy Mace also voiced strong reactions. Media figures like Joey Jones echoed the sentiment, underscoring the murders committed by terrorists. Despite the controversy, Mamdani intends to attend the commemoration to honor the victims and first responders alongside prominent political figures.

There is an ongoing petition, organized by several victims’ families, urging Mamdani not to participate in the ceremony. This petition questions the appropriateness of his participation given the nature of the tragedy and the families’ expectations. Fox News Digital has reached out to Mamdani’s office for comments regarding the situation.