NYC Mayoral Race
Satmar Leader Rabbi Moishe Indig Set to Endorse Zohran Mamdani
Brooklyn political shockwave: Satmar Hasidic leader Rabbi Moishe Indig to endorse Democratic Socialist Zohran Mamdani just days before NYC mayoral election, raising eyebrows over pro-Palestinian stances and Orthodox voter outreach.
Rabbi Moishe Indig, a prominent leader in Brooklyn's Satmar Hasidic community, is expected to endorse Democratic mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani during a brief event Sunday afternoon in Williamsburg, sources confirmed.
The endorsement, coming just two days before the general election, highlights Mamdani's aggressive outreach to Orthodox Jewish voters despite his vocal criticism of Israel and support for Palestinian causes, stances that have alienated many in the broader Jewish community.
A Queens assemblyman and Democratic Socialist, Mamdani has held private meetings with rabbis and Hasidic leaders across the city, focusing on shared priorities like affordable housing and yeshiva funding.
Satmar's anti-Zionist theology aligns somewhat with Mamdani's views, making the group a rare bridge in his Jewish engagement efforts. The low-key gathering will feature remarks from both Indig and Mamdani on "community priorities," per sources familiar with the plans.
Satmar, one of NYC's largest Hasidic sects with tens of thousands of voters, has a history of backing candidates who address local needs over foreign policy. The endorsement could boost Mamdani's turnout in Brooklyn amid his double-digit polling lead over Independent Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa.
Mamdani's team did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The move has stunned some Jewish voters, with critics questioning the implications for pro-Israel advocacy in the city.