Actress Debra Messing has sparked outrage after sharing a social media post that appeared to label newly elected New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani as a 'jihadist'. The 57-year-old Will & Grace star reposted a meme on her Instagram story on 4 November, the same day as the mayoral election, from an account called Persian Jewess.
The image showed a fake ballot with two options: 'A Democrat. Just a democrat' and 'An actual communist jihadist. A literal Karl Marx-quoting, America-hating jihadist'. The original post was captioned with a call to vote for Andrew Cuomo and included the hashtag #ZohranMamdani.
Critics quickly condemned Messing, with some calling her 'racist' and an 'idiot'. One user wrote: 'I truly hope Debra Messing never gets hired for anything ever again. The way she was calling Zohran a jihadist. The day OF the election. Just a deeply racist person.' Others defended her, with one supporter saying: 'Good for her. At least somebody has some common sense.'
Messing, who has been outspoken about anti-semitism, had earlier revealed she voted early for Cuomo on 25 October. She argued that New York City needs an experienced leader and that Mamdani, at 34, lacks the practical experience to handle the role. Hours after her post, Mamdani defeated Cuomo and Republican candidate Curtis Silwa.
Mamdani has dismissed criticism about his age and inexperience. Following his victory, he pledged to pursue universal childcare, free buses, and rent freezes, among other affordability measures. His platform includes a $30 minimum wage and higher taxes on the wealthiest residents.
