News|ElectionsZohran Mamdani defends his Muslim faith amid ‘racist, baseless attacks’The emotional speech against Islamophobia from the NYC mayoral race frontrunner comes a day before early voting begins.
## Candidate's Speech Amidst Election Campaign
Candidate's Speech Amidst Election Campaign
New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani addressed his opponents' alleged racist attacks during a speech outside a mosque in the Bronx on Fri, Oct 20, 2025. He highlighted concerns about Islamophobia affecting the Muslim community in New York City.
Mamdani, a current member of the New York State Assembly, commented on his campaign's focus on affordability. He noted recent actions by opponents suggesting Islamophobia as a common ground. His comments follow a controversial statement by his opponent, former New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo, during a radio interview.
Basim Elkarra, Executive Director of CAIR Action, criticized Cuomo's radio appearance as unacceptable. The remarks were described as promoting hate speech and divisive leadership.
He highlighted concerns about Islamophobia affecting the Muslim community in New York City.
Political Endorsements and Polling Data
On the eve of early voting, Mamdani received an endorsement from Hakeem Jeffries, leader of the Democratic Party in the US House of Representatives. Despite receiving endorsements from prominent Democrats, Mamdani faces challenges from some party members.
Current polling data from AARP and Gotham Polling and Analytics indicate Mamdani leads with 43.2% support, followed by Cuomo at 28.9% and Curtis Sliwa at 19.4%. The poll identifies cost of living as the primary concern among voters.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.