Mamdani Avoids Regret Over Past Police Statements

Zoran Mamdani, a Democratic candidate for mayor in New York City, sidestepped a reporter’s question on whether he feels regret for previously advocating for police refunds following the tragic death of NYPD officer Didarul Islam this week.

Back in 2020, Mamdani made several public condemnations of the NYPD, calling for refunding police resources after George Floyd’s death in Minneapolis. At a press conference, a reporter probed Mamdani about whether he might reconsider his past comments about police in light of recent events.

“When you grow and reflect on things—well, I think it’s fair to ponder… would you say those things again?” the reporter asked.

In response, Mamdani commented that his 2020 remarks stemmed from frustrations shared by many New Yorkers concerning Floyd’s murder. He mentioned that current Mayor Eric Adams has emphasized that safety and justice can coexist and that one does not have to be sacrificed for the other.

On Monday, a shooting incident in Midtown Manhattan resulted in the death of Islam, who was shot in a building lobby. The gunman, 27-year-old Shane Tamra, also claimed three other lives during the incident.

Mamdani had previously stated on social media that the NYPD posed a “huge threat” to public safety and criticized the department as “evil” and “corrupted.” However, he later distanced himself from those views, asserting at a recent press conference that he is not advocating for police refunds at this time.

“I’m not paying back the police. I’m clear about my views on public safety and the essential role that police play in that,” he told reporters.

Following the death of Islam, Mamdani paid tribute, saying, “His family can be proud.” He recounted a story about how Islam chose a dangerous career in policing to leave behind a memorable legacy for his family.

Furthermore, other mayoral candidates have criticized Mamdani’s stance, particularly regarding what they perceive as plans to detract from the NYPD’s response capabilities. New York Governor Kathy Hochul also expressed her disagreement with Mamdani’s past propositions for the police.