Gottheimer condemns NYC’s far left mayoral candidate over rhetoric as Sherrill praises progressive win

TRENTON, N.J. — New Jersey Representatives Josh Gottheimer and Mikie Sherrill offered sharply contrasting reactions to political developments in neighboring New York, highlighting divisions within the Democratic Party over messaging and strategy.

On social media, Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-5th Dist.) criticized New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Kwame Mamdani, a Democratic Socialist and New York Assembly member, for not denouncing controversial and hateful anti-Jewish political slogans.

“‘Globalize the Intifada’ refers to a horrific wave of terror — attacks that left more than a thousand Jews dead,” Gottheimer posted on X, formerly Twitter. “With antisemitic violence at record highs, @ZohranKMamdani’s refusal to condemn violent and hateful rhetoric is unacceptable.”

Gottheimer, a leader of the House bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus, described himself as a “commonsense Democrat” and reaffirmed his opposition to socialism, higher taxes, and antisemitism.

Meanwhile, Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D-11th Dist.) voiced support for the broader grassroots movement that helped fuel Mamdani’s campaign and others aligned with New York’s progressive wing, celebrating it as a local organizing victory.

Though she did not mention Mamdani by name, her remarks contrasted with Gottheimer’s tone, reflecting an internal divide among Democrats on how to navigate rising progressive influence.

The exchanges come as New Jersey and New York both brace for competitive elections and heightened attention on party messaging ahead of November.