Context:

Zohran Mamdani, the apparent winner of New York City's Democratic mayoral primary, has faced intense racially charged attacks from the far right, accusing him of being a threat to New Yorkers due to his Muslim faith. These Islamophobic attacks echo past political conspiracies, like the 'birther' theory against Barack Obama, and portray Mamdani as a dangerous outsider. Despite this, Mamdani's campaign is supported by a diverse, young, and multiethnic coalition, with strong backing from progressive Democrats, particularly in neighborhoods with educated and liberal voters. His policy proposals focus on progressive economic reforms, such as increased taxes on the wealthy to fund social programs. The attacks against him highlight a broader history of Islamophobia in American politics, which has been exacerbated since the September 11 attacks, raising concerns about his safety and the political climate leading up to the general election.

Dive Deeper:

• Zohran Mamdani, poised to become New York City's first Muslim mayor, has been the target of intensified racist attacks from right-wing politicians and media, accusing him of supporting terrorism and Islamic law, which reflects a broader history of Islamophobia in American politics.

• Critics of Mamdani have used familiar Islamophobic and anti-immigrant tropes, reminiscent of the 'birther' conspiracy against Barack Obama, to paint him as a dangerous figure, despite his campaign being driven by a diverse and progressive coalition.

• Mamdani's support comes from a geographically and demographically diverse electorate, including young leftists and progressive Democrats, who are drawn to his optimistic campaign style and populist economic policies aimed at addressing the high cost of living.

• The attacks against Mamdani are not limited to the right; some centrist and left-wing figures have also expressed concerns about his candidacy, indicating a broader political panic about his progressive agenda and the challenge he poses to the establishment.

• Mamdani's campaign has been characterized by its focus on progressive policies, such as taxing the wealthy to fund social programs, which have resonated with voters dissatisfied with his opponent, former Governor Andrew Cuomo, and eager for change.

• The political atmosphere surrounding Mamdani's candidacy is fraught with racial and religious tension, raising concerns about his personal safety as he faces threats and vilification from opponents who have resorted to personal and Islamophobic attacks.

• Mamdani's experiences with Islamophobic rhetoric highlight the challenges faced by Muslim politicians in the U.S., as they navigate a political landscape that often subjects them to scrutiny and discrimination based on their faith and ethnicity.