Mamdani Campaigns with Imam Linked to Terror Plots in NYC

UPDATE: New York City mayoral frontrunner Zohran Mamdani just made headlines by appearing alongside controversial Imam Siraj Wahhaj at Masjid At-Taqwa in Brooklyn. This unexpected partnership raises serious questions as Wahhaj has been linked to the 1993 World Trade Center bombing.

During the event on October 18, 2025, Mamdani praised Wahhaj as a “pillar” of the Bed-Stuy community, despite the Imam’s troubling history with terrorism-related allegations. Prosecutors previously identified Wahhaj as a potential co-conspirator in the 1993 attack that claimed six lives and injured over 1,000 people.

Wahhaj has also faced scrutiny for his children, three of whom received life sentences in 2024 for terrorism and conspiracy charges related to a jihadist training compound in New Mexico. This compound was reportedly used to plot attacks against the U.S. government. Wahhaj defended his actions, claiming he helped authorities locate the compound by reporting its whereabouts.

Mamdani, who currently leads the mayoral race with a significant 52% support among likely voters, has positioned himself against former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who stands at 28%, and Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa, with just 14% of the vote.

Wahhaj has publicly endorsed Mamdani, describing him as a “very good candidate” in a June Instagram video. Notably, he also contributed $1,000 to a super PAC that is heavily supporting Mamdani’s campaign, raising eyebrows about the implications of their alliance.

This development is causing a stir in the already contentious New York City mayoral race, as Mamdani’s connection to Wahhaj could impact voter perceptions and rally opposition. Critics are quick to point out Wahhaj’s past remarks, where he suggested that “this so-called democracy will crumble,” highlighting his controversial views.

As the campaign heats up, Mamdani’s team has yet to respond to inquiries regarding his partnership with Wahhaj, leaving voters and officials questioning the implications of this alliance. With the election approaching, the impact of this relationship on Mamdani’s campaign strategy remains to be seen.

What’s next? Watch for any further statements from Mamdani’s campaign and responses from his opponents, as this story continues to develop in the lead-up to the mayoral election.