New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani recently attended the unveiling of a new 9/11 Memorial Wall at One Police Plaza. The event took place on September 9, 2026. The memorial’s unveiling has stirred political tension as the 25th anniversary of the tragic event approaches.
Robert De Niro, a well-known liberal actor, expressed mixed feelings regarding Mayor Mamdani’s presence at the memorial. While he acknowledged certain criticisms of the mayor as “ridiculous,” De Niro insisted the mayor should attend the 9/11 memorial, stating, “He’s the mayor. I haven’t heard him say anything disqualifying for his attendance.” This comment comes amid controversy surrounding Mamdani’s past statements and associations.
Political Backlash
Mayor Mamdani faces backlash for his criticism of the NYPD during the 2020 George Floyd protests. He had called to “defund the police” and labeled the NYPD “racist” and “anti-queer,” raising concerns among victims’ families. These families, over 100,000 of whom signed a petition, requested that Mamdani not attend the memorial.
De Niro responded to the controversy, expressing understanding of the families’ pain. Still, he advocated for Mamdani’s attendance to bridge divides. He stressed the mayor’s presence could promote unity but recognized his prior comments about defunding the police as “ridiculous.”
Criticism of Mamdani and Allies
“Mr. Mamdani has endorsed candidates who minimized the impact of 9/11, aligning with positions considered extreme,” said the petition opposing Mamdani’s attendance.
Critics highlight Mamdani’s associations with individuals linked to terrorism. He once praised Imam Siraj Wahhaj, a figure tied to the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. His connections with activist Hasan Piker, who controversially said America “deserved” the attacks, have amplified scrutiny.
Mamdani’s decision to offer a ceremonial pen to Ramzi Kassem, who defended a convicted al Qaeda member, also drew ire. This gesture, among other issues, heightens scrutiny of the mayor’s stance on terrorism-related issues.
Responses and Criticism
Rafael Mangual from the Manhattan Institute criticized De Niro’s casual dismissal of Mamdani’s detractors. He cited that Mamdani’s harsh words against the NYPD, who acted heroically during 9/11, justified the families’ anger. Further, Mamdani’s comments during his rap career and mayoral campaign have added to the controversy.
Mary Marslender, a consultant, argues Mamdani cannot easily distance himself from his “defund the police” stance. She pointed out Mamdani’s history of blaming America’s role in 9/11 and refusal to police extreme language, reflecting poorly on him.
Elizabeth Pipko, a former spokesperson for the RNC, criticized De Niro’s defense of Mamdani, calling it ignorant. She pointed out Mamdani’s troubling associations and refusal to condemn provocative slogans, highlighting the divide between his views and those of affected families.
Fox News Digital contacted Mamdani’s office for comment but has not received a response.
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