Backlash as Mamdani attends 9/11 memorial despite families’ pleas to stay away

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani faced criticism from 9/11 families and other critics for attending the Ground Zero remembrance despite a petition with more than 110,000 signatures urging him to skip, amid controversy over his associations and his appointment of Ramzi Kassem. Supporters say he has the right to attend, while mourners and former officials called the appearance disrespectful and political, noting the ceremony should honor victims and first responders, with Giuliani appearing nearby.