Progressive Democratic Representative Jamie Raskin from Maryland has publicly compared New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani to President Franklin Delano Roosevelt (FDR). This comparison was made in a campaign video released late Tuesday, coinciding with the ongoing voting for the city’s next mayor.
Raskin’s Endorsement of Mamdani
In the video, Raskin explained, “They’ve been able to scare a lot of people with, ‘Oh, he’s a socialist.’ He’s a Democratic socialist. He’s an FDR Democrat.” Standing alongside Mamdani, he noted that the candidate possesses “Rooseveltian ambition,” hinting at his potential for significant political impact.
Mamdani expressed gratitude, stating, “That’s the highest compliment you can receive.” Raskin further referenced FDR’s famous 1936 speech at Madison Square Garden, where Roosevelt criticized capitalist monopolies and declared, “I welcome their hatred.”
Election Context
Mamdani, who is ineligible to run for president due to his birth in Uganda, has garnered significant support from the progressive wing of the Democratic Party. His support, however, has not been universal. While House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries endorsed him shortly before early voting commenced, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer refrained from endorsing any candidate.
- Mamdani’s Support: Hakeem Jeffries (House Minority Leader, D-NY)
- Mamdani’s Opponent: Andrew Cuomo (Independent, former Democratic Gov.)
- Criticism: Tom Suozzi (Rep. D-NY) endorsed Cuomo and criticized Mamdani’s policies.
Divided Democratic Support
The party remains split regarding Mamdani’s candidacy, with some Democrats from Washington showing concern over his socialist ideals. His campaign is emblematic of a broader trend within the Democratic Party, as more progressive candidates engage in challenging established norms.
Raskin’s endorsement showcases Mamdani’s growing influence and popularity among left-leaning voters. However, substantial challenges remain as Mamdani navigates the political landscape in New York City.
