Jeffries Dodges Questions on Socialist Policies of Mamdani
During an interview on CNBC’s “Squawk Box,” House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries faced repeated inquiries about whether he would support the socialist agenda of Democratic mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani. Jeffries seemed visibly frustrated, especially as anchor Andrew Ross Sorkin pressed him on Mamdani’s leftist policies.
Jeffries diverged from directly addressing Mamdani’s views, implying that the rise of socialist candidates in the party was not something he wished to emphasize. “We’re trying to understand why we spend quite a bit of time asking about Democratic candidates who aren’t even mayor,” he remarked, reflecting, perhaps, a reluctance to engage with the conversation fully.
Mamdani emerged as a prominent figure in the party’s left wing after winning the New York City Democratic primary, a notable upset over former Governor Andrew Cuomo. Jeffries, representing a Brooklyn district, had met with Mamdani and other democratic socialists but later refrained from endorsing their proposals.
While he acknowledged their focus on affordability issues, Jeffries deflected when asked about specific policies, like proposals for rent control or free public services. Sorkin pressed further: “Are you interested in where you land, like freezing rent…?”
In response, Jeffries stated that it was Mamdani’s responsibility to convince New York voters of his platform’s merits. “Zohran has to argue to New York people… that they are designed to address New York City’s affordability,” he said, placing the onus on Mamdani rather than expressing his own stance.
When asked if he agreed with Mamdani’s solutions, Jeffries didn’t confirm or deny but highlighted the necessity of the private sector’s involvement in tackling rising housing costs. He emphasized a collaborative approach across various government levels, stating, “It’s the city, it’s the state, it’s the federal…and it means meaningful partnership with the private sector.” His comments seemed to point towards a more centrist view.
This evasiveness has drawn criticism from the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC), which accused Jeffries of sidestepping direct responses about socialism. Spokesman Mike Marinella stated, “‘Leader’ Hakeem Jeffries’ Hissy Fit says everything we need to know,” painting him as weak in the face of extreme views within his party.
The NRCC also launched an ad campaign linking Mamdani’s socialist beliefs with those of New York Democrat Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, targeting vulnerable Democratic incumbents. A recent Siena University poll indicated that Mamdani was gaining traction in the competitive mayoral race, trailing Cuomo by just 20 points.
