Bruce Blakeman, the Republican contender in New York’s gubernatorial race, suggested a silent protest if New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani attends the upcoming September 11 memorial ceremony. Blakeman, who lost a nephew in the South Tower attacks and now serves as Nassau County executive, proposed that attendees turn their backs on Mamdani.
Blakeman stated, “I think it’s completely appropriate if family members ask him not to come. If he does attend, a respectful and peaceful protest would be for people to turn their back on the mayor.” He compared the memorial to a wake, emphasizing the importance of being welcome.
He’s not welcome there because he has yet to say anything in opposition to the global intifada.— Bruce Blakeman
Blakeman criticized Mamdani for not denouncing the term “globalize the intifada”. Blakeman argued that Mamdani’s stance disqualifies him from attending the 25th-anniversary ceremony of the attacks.
Mayor Mamdani’s office did not respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment. Mamdani intends to participate, underscoring the significance of honoring families and first responders affected by the attacks. “I will proudly honor the families, the survivors, the first responders forever impacted by that horrific terror attack,” he stated earlier.
A petition on Change.org urges the National September 11 Memorial & Museum to ban Mamdani from the event due to concerns over his public comments. The petition questions if Mamdani’s values align with the ceremony’s purpose and the expectations of those most affected by the tragedy.
The 9/11 Memorial & Museum aims to keep politics out of the commemoration. A spokesperson mentioned that political figures, including presidents and governors, attend to bear witness without making public remarks.
Former New York Governor George Pataki has expressed mixed feelings, noting the uniqueness of September 11. “Sept. 11 is different,” Pataki remarked when asked about Mamdani’s attendance.
The memorial, located at the World Trade Center site in Lower Manhattan, is a solemn occasion for remembering the significant loss experienced during the attacks.