Rep. Randy Fine released a statement sharply criticizing New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, accusing him of contributing to what Fine characterized as an increase in violence linked to Muslim extremism. In a social media post, Fine wrote, “Absolutely DISGUSTING.
Jihadi Mamdani is to blame for the rise in Muslim terror happening across New York City. DENATURALIZE AND DEPORT HIM NOW.” The remarks emerged amid renewed national debate surrounding Mamdani’s recent comments on immigration and religion.
Fine’s comments followed a violent incident in Manhattan involving a 20-year-old student from Yeshiva University. According to police, the student was attacked by four masked individuals at the West 181st Street and St. Nicholas Avenue subway station in Washington Heights. Officers responded to a 911 call shortly after 7 p.m., reporting that the victim was punched and kicked during the assault.
Rabbi Dovid Bashevkin described the incident as “beyond frightening for a visibly Jewish community in NYC.” The student was transported to Columbia University Irving Medical Center in stable condition and has since returned to campus. Authorities stated that the attack remains under investigation and is not believed to have been bias-motivated.
Fine also referenced other incidents in his criticism of Mamdani, stating, “It’s clear that Mamdani has NO RESPECT for America or our Constitutional values. We need to denaturalize and deport HIM as soon as possible.” The representative’s remarks come amid growing scrutiny of Mamdani’s public statements and policy initiatives, particularly those addressing immigration and religious engagement.
Earlier this week, Mamdani spoke at New York City’s annual interfaith breakfast, where he invoked Islamic teachings while discussing immigration. He cited the Prophet Muhammad and the migration from Mecca to Medina as an example of compassion toward newcomers, encouraging Americans to “stand alongside the stranger” in shaping immigration policy.
During the event, Mamdani also signed an executive order strengthening the city’s sanctuary policies. The order limits cooperation with federal immigration authorities without judicial warrants, restricts access to certain city facilities by federal officers, and expands privacy protections for residents. City officials said the measures are intended to safeguard immigrant communities and reduce fear associated with federal enforcement actions.
Criticism of Mamdani has intensified in recent days, partly driven by resurfaced comments from his mother in a 2013 interview. Opponents have pointed to her remarks about the family’s cultural identity as evidence of Mamdani’s alleged detachment from American values.
Fine and other critics argue that Mamdani’s use of religious narratives in policy discussions, along with his support for sanctuary city measures, raises broader questions about constitutional principles and national identity.
Mamdani, the youngest mayor and the first Muslim and South Asian leader in New York City’s history, continues to attract national attention as his policies intersect with debates over immigration, public safety, and religious inclusion. Supporters describe his approach as consistent with the city’s longstanding immigrant traditions, while critics remain concerned about the implications of his rhetoric and policy agenda.
