MAGA erupts in Islamophobic backlash over Zohran Mamdani’s win

WEB DESK: Make America Great Again (MAGA) influencers launched a wave of racist and Islamophobic attacks following democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani’s surprising victory in New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary. The 33-year-old, who would become NYC’s first Muslim mayor if elected, has quickly become a right-wing boogeyman due to his progressive politics, Indian-Ugandan heritage, and faith. Police had already been investigating hate-fueled threats against him before his primary win over former Governor Andrew Cuomo. US President Donald Trump also took to his social media to share his views calling him a ‘100 percent Communist Lunatic’. Trump wrote:

It’s finally happened, the Democrats have crossed the line. Zohran Mamdani, a 100% Communist Lunatic, has just won the Dem Primary, and is on his way to becoming Mayor. We’ve had Radical Lefties before, but this is getting a little ridiculous. He looks TERRIBLE, his voice is grating, he’s not very smart, he’s got AOC+3, Dummies ALL, backing him, and even our Great Palestinian Senator, Cryin’ Chuck Schumer, is groveling over him. Yes, this is a big moment in the History of our Country!

Racist and Islamophobic rhetoric

Prominent right-wing figures amplified past statements by Mamdani on Israel, socialism, and defunding the police to portray him as a radical. But many went further, targeting his Muslim identity and immigrant background. Donald Trump Jr. shared a post implying his election endorsed 9/11-style terrorism, while Charlie Kirk falsely linked his faith to the attacks, calling it “cultural suicide” not to oppose him.

Zohran Mamdani poised to become New York’s first Muslim mayor

Conspiracy theorist Laura Loomer baselessly claimed his win would lead to terrorism in NYC, and The Daily Wire’s Matt Walsh called the city’s immigrant population “a tragedy.”

Broader political implications

National Republicans see Mamdani’s democratic socialist platform as an opportunity to paint Democrats as extreme. His pro-Palestinian activism, including his refusal to denounce the phrase “globalize the intifada,” became a major flashpoint in a city with a large Jewish community. Despite this, Mamdani has repeatedly condemned antisemitism and pledged to govern for all New Yorkers.

Personal toll and next steps

Mamdani has faced violent threats, including messages like, “The only good Muslim is a dead Muslim.” He now prepares for a general election likely against incumbent Eric Adams, who is running as an independent. The race will test whether NYC voters embrace his progressive vision or succumb to the fear-mongering of his opponents.