New York Politics Shake-Up: Mayor Mamdani Revokes Controversial Orders

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani has revoked several executive orders from his predecessor Eric Adams, who was indicted in 2024 for illegal campaign contributions. Mamdani's actions have been met with mixed reactions, especially concerning antisemitism and ties to Israel. The move highlights ongoing tensions in New York's political landscape.

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani made headlines Friday by overturning a series of executive orders from former Mayor Eric Adams, who faced legal troubles over illegal campaign contributions in 2024. Among the rescinded directives was one authorizing federal agents, including immigration officers, to utilize office space on Rikers Island, which a court nullified. Additionally, Mamdani rescinded orders linked to addressing antisemitism, citing plans to fund new initiatives to combat hate crimes and protect Jewish New Yorkers.

Mamdani reflected on the significant decline in public trust in city politics that followed Adams' indictment, which involved alleged monetary benefits from Turkish nationals. While charges against Adams were later dropped, Mamdani criticized the diversion caused by the case, emphasizing the city's duty to serve public interests over individual agendas. A member of the Democratic Party's left wing, Mamdani has also been vocal against Republican President Donald Trump's strict immigration reforms.

Further actions by Mamdani involved reversing Adams' prohibition against city institutions divesting from Israel, sparking both praise and criticism. Islamic organizations welcomed the move, arguing that the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's definition of antisemitism had been misused to muzzle Palestinian rights advocates. Conversely, Israel's Foreign Ministry sharply criticized Mamdani's decision, accusing him of fanning the flames of antisemitism. The unfolding developments indicate a fraught political climate in New York.

(With inputs from agencies.)