Political Controversy Surrounds New York’s 9/11 Commemoration
New York City recently unveiled a new 9/11 Memorial Wall at One Police Plaza. Mayor Zohran Mamdani spoke at the ceremony on September 9, 2026, amidst a backdrop of controversy over his previous comments on law enforcement.
Actor Robert De Niro, known for his liberal viewpoint, agreed with critics that some of Mayor Mamdani’s remarks on police were “ridiculous” but still felt the mayor should attend the upcoming 9/11 memorial event.
Political tensions threaten to overshadow this year’s September 11 remembrance events. This marks 25 years since the tragic attacks on the World Trade Center.
Mamdani’s previous rhetoric and association with figures sympathetic to terrorism sparked backlash ahead of the city’s memorial events. Republicans and relatives of those affected by the attacks demand he not attend.
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, De Niro defended Mamdani. He argued there is no reason Mamdani should be excluded from the commemoration.
“He’s the mayor,” De Niro stated. “I haven’t heard him say or do anything that would disqualify him from being there. Maybe I’m naive, but you have to give the guy a chance.”
Despite a petition signed by over 100,000 relatives of the deceased urging Mamdani to skip the event, stating his praise for figures linked to radical Islam.
Mamdani has faced criticism for his comments on the NYPD, especially during the 2020 George Floyd riots when he called for defunding the police and labeled the NYPD as a significant threat to public safety.
De Niro acknowledged understanding the pain felt by 9/11 families regarding Mamdani’s attendance. He suggested the memorial event could unite people despite his previous remarks.
De Niro took a strong stance against former President Donald Trump. He emphasized the need to protect the electoral process.
Actor De Niro admitted that Mamdani’s comments on law enforcement were unacceptable. Yet, he argued Mamdani should still attend the memorial.
Entertainment commentator Christian Toto criticized De Niro’s interview. He accused The Hollywood Reporter of encouraging De Niro without fact-checking due to shared political allegiance.
Senate advisor Mary Marslender and former RNC spokesperson Elizabeth Pipko criticized Mamdani’s past rhetoric. They argued it reflects a disregard for American values.
Fox News Digital contacted Mamdani’s office for comment but did not receive an immediate response.