New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani faces criticism for using children in campaign videos while advocating for a social media-free childhood.
Zohran Mamdani, a 33-year-old candidate for mayor of New York City, has come under fire for featuring elementary school children in his political campaign videos. This backlash follows his recent remarks about how fortunate he was to have a childhood free from the influence of social media.
The criticism intensified as Mamdani shared videos of two children endorsing his candidacy on Instagram, despite his previous comments highlighting the negative impact of social media on youth interactions. The timing of these posts coincided with the launch of a statewide cellphone ban in New York City schools, aimed at safeguarding student mental health.
On Thursday, Mamdani was seen outside I.S. 5 in Queens, where he praised the new cellphone restrictions while welcoming families for the first day of the school year. In an Instagram post, he reflected on his own childhood, contrasting it with the current digital landscape. He wrote, “I consider myself fortunate—when I was a student, it was before social media had cannibalized the way that kids interact with one another.” This post was accompanied by a message about “hope and new beginnings” as students returned to school.
However, just days later, Mamdani’s campaign accounts showcased videos of two young children speaking directly to him and Senator Elizabeth Warren, a Democrat from Massachusetts. In one clip, a young girl confidently endorsed Mamdani, while in another, a boy expressed his support with Warren present.
Comments from followers on these posts reflected a mix of admiration and criticism. One user remarked on the girl’s articulate nature despite her small stature, while others questioned the appropriateness of using children to promote a political agenda. “Why are you using kids to promote your political agenda?” one follower asked, echoing sentiments from others who felt that involving children in such a manner was unacceptable.
This controversy arises in the context of a broader conversation about the role of technology in children’s lives. New York Governor Kathy Hochul recently defended the cellphone ban, arguing that it would help reduce distractions, improve mental health, and protect children during emergencies by preventing location-sharing. The new law prohibits the use of smartphones and smartwatches in public schools during school hours, except for medical or educational purposes.
Mamdani, who gained attention after unseating a longtime incumbent in the Democratic primary, is campaigning on a platform of progressive policies, including a proposed $30 minimum wage and a rent freeze. His approach has resonated with some voters, but the recent backlash over his use of children in campaign materials raises questions about the consistency of his message.
As the mayoral election approaches, Mamdani’s campaign will need to navigate the complexities of public perception, especially regarding the use of children in political discourse. The juxtaposition of his advocacy for a social media-free childhood with his campaign strategies may challenge his credibility among voters.
Fox News Digital reached out to Mamdani for comment regarding the criticism but has not yet received a response.
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