Like Zohran, Rama Duwaji Despises Israel 

New scrutiny is being directed at Rama Duwaji, the wife of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, following reports about her past online activity and involvement in political campaigns critical of Israel.

According to multiple reports, Duwaji, a professional illustrator, previously created artwork for a campaign organized by the New York City chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA). The campaign, titled “Palestine On The Ballot,” promoted candidates in Democratic primaries who opposed funding from pro-Israel groups and supported legislation targeting organizations accused of backing Israeli settlement activity.

The initiative encouraged voters to review candidates’ positions on issues related to Israel and the Palestinian territories, including support for a proposed bill known as the “Not on Our Dime Act.” The legislation, sponsored at the time by Mamdani while serving in the New York State Assembly, sought to penalize charities found to be supporting what it defined as settlement-related violence.

Duwaji’s role in the campaign included producing visual materials used in social media outreach, according to reports that identified her as the illustrator behind promotional content.

In addition to her political work, attention has also focused on Duwaji’s past activity on social media. Reports have cited instances in which she appeared to engage with or endorse posts critical of Israel, including content related to the October 7, 2023 attacks and broader regional tensions. The extent and context of those interactions remain part of an ongoing public debate.

The issue has drawn reactions from political figures and advocacy groups, some of whom have raised concerns about the implications of her past positions given her proximity to the mayor’s office. Critics argue that her activism reflects a broader ideological alignment with her husband, who has been associated with progressive and Democratic socialist political movements.

Supporters of Mamdani have pushed back on the criticism, noting that Duwaji is not an elected official and emphasizing her status as a private individual. Mamdani himself has previously described his wife as a private citizen, a characterization that has been challenged by opponents citing her involvement in political advocacy efforts.

The renewed attention comes amid ongoing tensions in US domestic politics over the war in the Middle East, where divisions over Israel policy have become increasingly pronounced, particularly within Democratic Party primaries and progressive circles.

The controversy surrounding Duwaji highlights the broader intersection of personal affiliations and public roles, as political figures and their families face heightened scrutiny over past statements, activism, and associations in a polarized environment.