Hudson Valley Republican Rep. Mike Lawler claims that leading New York Democrats—including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries—are increasingly concerned over state Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani’s unexpected momentum in New York City’s mayoral primary.
Speaking on Fox & Friends Wednesday, Lawler referenced reporting from political commentator Mark Halperin, who stated that Jeffries is privately worried that a Mamdani victory could derail Democratic hopes of reclaiming the House in November.
“I think that’s right,” Lawler said when asked about Halperin’s claims. “You see Kathy Hochul, Chuck Schumer, and Hakeem Jeffries freaking out about the prospects of having a Marxist lead the financial capital of the world.”
Lawler warned that Mamdani, a Democratic Socialist aligned with the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), could alienate centrist voters. “They understand this is a disaster, not only for Democrats, but for the country,” he added.
Halperin’s report suggests that Jeffries believes a Mamdani-led New York City would energize Republican messaging nationwide, especially in swing districts, with one source saying the Democratic leader is convinced that “if Mamdani wins, he can’t win the majority.”
Mamdani, who represents parts of Queens in the New York State Assembly, has gained traction with progressive voters and grassroots organizations, pushing for bold reforms in housing, policing, and economic policy.
