De Blasio Backs Mamdani Amid Crime Concerns

Former New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio expressed support for Socialist Democrat mayoral candidate Zoran Mamdani during an appearance on “Hannity” on Tuesday. He stated that Mamdani will ensure the safety of city residents, despite Mamdani’s controversial statements about police funding.

De Blasio has endorsed Mamdani’s policies, suggesting they address important issues affecting cities. The discussion with Hannity also delved into President Donald Trump’s potential decisions to deploy troops to Washington, D.C., and whether the military presence is necessary to combat rising crime rates.

“Since Obama took office, I’ve been noting the names of those shot and killed in Chicago for years, yet nothing has changed,” de Blasio remarked. “Now, we have the highest murder rate in our capital—it’s concerning. Even places like Baghdad and Mexico City feel safer.”

He emphasized that while a sufficient police presence is necessary, it’s essential to foster collaboration between law enforcement and the community. “It’s about having the right number of police officers and working together with them,” he added.

Trump mentioned he is contemplating sending National Guard troops to Chicago, following their deployment in D.C. on August 11, due to a surge in violent incidents there.

Several violent events, including the fatal shooting of a Republican intern, have raised public alarm about crime in Washington, D.C. Although crime rates there were reportedly down, some statistics, particularly concerning serious assaults, were contested.

In New York City, crime rates have generally decreased, but underreported instances of sexual assault have painted a more complex picture, as noted by the New York Post. In the second quarter of 2025, reported rapes increased to 517, compared to 448 in the same period the previous year, while overall murder figures showed a decline.

Hannity pointed out Mamdani’s history of advocating for police funding, to which de Blasio replied, recalling advice from former Police Commissioner Bill Bratton. Bratton said, “To create safety, police need to connect with the community.”

When Hannity countered de Blasio’s optimism by referring to Mamdani’s previous stance on police funding, de Blasio suggested that Mamdani’s views might evolve once he takes office, emphasizing a commitment to public safety.

Mamdani faced questions about his past anti-police statements following George Floyd’s death, claiming such remarks were made “in frustration” and expressing a desire to balance safety with community needs.

If elected, Mamdani plans initiatives like raising the minimum wage to $30, establishing a public grocery store, and imposing taxes on wealthier neighborhoods. These proposals have raised alarms among some business owners, who are contemplating their future should Mamdani win.

A recent poll showed Mamdani leading among candidates with 39%, followed by former Democratic Governor of New York at 21%, Republican candidate Curtis Swawah at 18%, and Democrat Eric Adams at 9%.