MSNBC host Joe Scarborough criticised Anti-Defamation League (ADL) CEO Jonathan Greenblatt on Wednesday for what he described as 'blurring and blending' the lines in his criticism of New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani. The exchange occurred during a segment on Morning Joe, following the ADL's announcement of a 'Mamdani Monitor' to track the incoming mayor's policies and appointments.
Greenblatt launched the initiative after Mamdani's decisive victory, citing concerns over the mayor-elect's alleged promotion of 'antisemitic narratives' and association with individuals who have a history of antisemitism. The ADL chief also referenced Mamdani's support for the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement, questioning whether it would affect city purchasing policies.
During the broadcast, Greenblatt accused Mamdani of refusing to work with the ADL and told Jewish New Yorkers, 'We have your back.' He highlighted a surge in antisemitic incidents, including an arson attack on Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro's home and a firebombing of an elderly person in Colorado.
Scarborough pushed back, noting that Mamdani has condemned such violence and has been engaging with the Jewish community, including attending high holiday services. Greenblatt dismissed this, arguing that Mamdani visited an 'anti-Zionist synagogue,' which he compared to attending a conservative event to understand African Americans.
Mamdani, the first Muslim mayor of New York City, has denied accusations of antisemitism and emphasised his commitment to standing with Jewish New Yorkers. In his victory speech, he pledged to build a city hall that fights antisemitism while ensuring Muslims feel they belong in the halls of power.
