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 of 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, expressed that it would be appropriate for family members to request Mamdani not to attend. He suggested that if Mamdani does attend, attendees could protest by turning their backs on him. Blakeman criticized Mamdani for not condemning the phrase "globalize the intifada," which he believes disqualifies him from participating in the ceremony. Mamdani's office did not respond to a request for comment, but he has indicated he plans to attend the event. A petition from relatives of September 11 victims has urged the National September 11 Memorial & Museum to bar Mamdani from the ceremony, citing concerns about his public positions and associations. The 9/11 Memorial & Museum has stated that it aims to keep the commemoration free of politics. Former New York Governor George Pataki commented on the situation, indicating that while he values inclusivity, the nature of September 11 is different.