New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani faced criticism for attending the unveiling ceremony of a new 9/11 Memorial Wall at One Police Plaza on September 9, 2026. Actor Robert De Niro, known for his outspoken political views, responded to the controversy surrounding Mayor Mamdani’s presence at the memorial, despite acknowledging criticisms of Mamdani’s past comments on law enforcement. De Niro expressed that Mamdani, as mayor, should attend the memorial, arguing that Mamdani should be given a chance despite previous remarks.
Political tensions overshadowed the September 11 remembrance events commemorating 25 years since the tragedy. Mamdani’s rhetoric and past associations with figures linked to terror sympathizers spurred backlash, with demands from various quarters for his absence from the events. An online petition signed by over 100,000 people, including family members of the 9/11 victims, urged Mamdani to skip the memorial, citing his past praise of figures connected to extremism.
Actor Robert De Niro was interviewed by The Hollywood Reporter regarding Mamdani’s potential attendance. He stated, “I don’t see why he shouldn’t come. He’s the mayor.” De Niro suggested Mamdani might use the occasion as an opportunity to bridge divides. However, De Niro also recognized the controversy regarding Mamdani’s comments criticizing the police during past protests.
Critics such as entertainment commentator Christian Toto argued that De Niro lacks understanding of Mamdani’s history and the consequences of his “defund the police” statements. Toto suggested that The Hollywood Reporter supported De Niro’s views without adequate examination, blaming his ignorance and aligning him with Mamdani because of shared political biases.
Mamdani’s past associations, such as his connection with Hasan Piker, who previously justified the 9/11 attacks, further fueled calls for Mamdani to be excluded from the memorial. Comments from Rafael Mangual of the Manhattan Institute highlighted Mamdani’s controversial associations and criticisms of law enforcement.
Former senior advisor to the U.S. Senate, Mary Marslender, addressed Mamdani’s past advocacy for defunding the police and refusal to distance himself from extremist voices, arguing that his actions reflect deeper issues with his political stance.
Former RNC national spokesperson Elizabeth Pipko criticized De Niro’s defense of Mamdani, pointing to the actor’s pattern of aligning without understanding the facts. She commented that De Niro’s views on Mamdani’s record show a disregard for values that unite Americans and questioned if De Niro would alter his stance when confronted with specific issues.
“Robert De Niro is again showing his privilege and ignorance,” Pipko stated. “He will defend the mayor without knowing facts, and attack Trump from a place of dislike rather than informed opinion.”
Efforts were made to reach Mayor Mamdani’s office for comments on these issues, but no response was received at the time of publication.