Pete Davidson Questions Connection Between NYC Mayor and Staten Island

Pete Davidson recently voiced skepticism about New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s ties to Staten Island during an interview with Variety. Davidson, who is vocal about his pride for his hometown, wondered about the mayor’s connection to the borough.

Davidson stated, “Zohran Mamdani… is he Staten Island? I don’t know. I don’t think he’s from Staten Island.” He further questioned if Mamdani has “Staten Island’s heart” and expressed doubt about Mamdani’s affinity with the area.

Davidson, known for his role on “Saturday Night Live,” explained that Staten Island is predominantly conservative, calling it “violently red.” He described the local attitude as seeking something different, rather than rooted in extreme ideologies.

During a “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” appearance alongside Mamdani and musical guest TV on the Radio, Davidson shared his frank insights. He commented, “You are not a real Staten Island politician unless you have a secret family and know one mobster.”

Davidson took the opportunity to ask Mamdani about ongoing issues with New York City infrastructure. He specifically inquired, “Yes, can he fix the f—ing BQE, please?” referencing the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway, a road infamous for its congestion and aging condition.

The audience responded enthusiastically to Davidson’s appeal. Mamdani later updated Kimmel and the audience on plans to renovate the highway. The BQE Central Project is a $4 billion initiative, aiming to refurbish the city-owned section and ensure safety without diverting traffic to local neighborhoods. Construction is planned to start in 2030.

Kimmel humorously concluded the conversation, noting that even future generations might continue to complain about the expressway’s issues.