New York gubernatorial candidate suggests protest against Mayor Mamdani at 9/11 ceremony

Bruce Blakeman, the Republican candidate for governor of New York, stated on Wednesday that attendees at the upcoming September 11 memorial ceremony should turn their backs on New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani if he attends. Blakeman, whose nephew died in the South Tower during the 2001 attacks and who currently serves as Nassau County executive, expressed that it would be appropriate for family members of victims to request Mamdani not to attend. He suggested that if Mamdani does attend, attendees could protest peacefully by turning their backs on him. Blakeman criticized Mamdani for not condemning the phrase "globalize the intifada," which he believes should disqualify him from attending the ceremony. Mamdani's office did not respond to requests for comment, but he has indicated he plans to attend the ceremony. A petition has been launched by relatives of September 11 victims urging the National September 11 Memorial & Museum to bar Mamdani from the event, citing concerns about his public positions and associations. A spokesperson for the 9/11 Memorial & Museum stated that the organization aims to keep the commemoration free of politics. Former New York Governor George Pataki also commented on the situation, indicating that while he values inclusivity, he believes September 11 is a unique circumstance.