Hakeem Jeffries dodges question about Zohran Mamdani identifying as African American on Columbia application

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries recently sidestepped questions regarding the controversy surrounding New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani’s self-identification as “black or African American” on his Columbia University application in 2009. During an appearance on Rev. Al Sharpton’s “PoliticsNation,” Jeffries chose to shift the focus to the pressing issue of affordability in New York City, a topic that has been a primary concern for voters.

Jeffries emphasized the importance of addressing affordability issues in the city, particularly for working-class communities, including neighborhoods of color. He stressed the need for the next mayor to present a concrete plan to ensure that these communities can continue to thrive in the city.

The New York Times recently reported that Mamdani identified himself as both “black or African American” and “Asian” on his 2009 Columbia University application. Mamdani, who was born in Uganda and immigrated to the US at a young age, had campaigned as a Muslim of South Asian descent. In a resurfaced video, Mamdani described himself as “an Indian, Ugandan, New Yorker” and clarified that he does not consider himself African American.

Mamdani has since explained that he sees himself as “an American who was born in Africa,” attributing his multiple checkboxes on his college application to trying to capture the complexity of his background. Jeffries, the highest-ranking black elected official in the US, has refrained from endorsing Mamdani in the mayoral race but has congratulated him on his primary victory over former Gov. Andrew Cuomo.

Mamdani is now facing off against incumbent Mayor Adams in the upcoming November election. Jeffries has previously disagreed with Mamdani on certain issues, such as his stance on the term “globalize the intifada,” which is perceived as a call to harm Jews. Jeffries has urged Mamdani to clarify his position on this issue as he continues his campaign.

During an interview on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Mamdani addressed the controversy surrounding the term “globalize the intifada,” stating that it is not language he uses and emphasizing his commitment to universal human rights. Despite being pressed on the issue multiple times, Mamdani reiterated his belief in free speech and his intent to lead the city with a focus on inclusivity and respect for all individuals.