Gingrich Comments on Support for Socialist Mayoral Candidate

On Tuesday, former Republican House Speaker Newt Gingrich discussed on Fox News’ “Hannity” how minority leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer felt compelled to back Zohran Mamdani, a Democratic candidate for mayor who identifies as a socialist, due to his alignment with the party’s electorate.

Mamdani won the Democratic primary in June, which led to mixed reactions among some Democrats. While a few showed enthusiasm for the socialist candidate, others have not publicly supported him yet. Hannity probed Gingrich about whether Schumer is out of touch with the evolving dynamics of his party, asking if he is “fossified.”

“I don’t think that’s the main issue,” Gingrich replied. “Schumer is simply lagging behind the reality of the current political climate. He senses it but seems paralyzed. As for Jeffries, his communications often feel disingenuous, almost like an extended filibuster.” He went on to suggest that both leaders might soon officially support Mamdani.

Gingrich predicted, “This will mean that two prominent Democratic leaders are effectively endorsing a Marxist agenda, aligning with a radical leftist as representative of their party.”

After Mamdani’s primary win, both parties voiced concerns about his proposals, which some lawmakers criticized, especially regarding socio-economic disparities in neighborhoods. Notably, Mamdani’s past comments on the phrase “globalization of intifadas” also raised eyebrows.

However, Jamal Bowman, a former Democratic representative, called Mamdani the party’s future, arguing that the term socialism has been misused by critics labeling it as “anti-American.” In contrast, others, like Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman, expressed skepticism about Mamdani’s positions, suggesting significant ideological differences.

“What can they do? He has already clinched the primary,” Gingrich noted. “He’s now their candidate.”

In June, Jeffries and Schumer both publicly acknowledged and celebrated Mamdani’s campaign achievements following his nomination.

While the top Democrats seem concerned about Mamdani’s past statements, their eventual support for him suggests a complex dynamic within the party. According to reports, both leaders have not officially distanced themselves from Mamdani, despite reservations about his rhetoric.