Blakeman Suggests Silent Protest at 9/11 Memorial

Bruce Blakeman, a Republican candidate in New York’s gubernatorial race, proposed a silent protest at this year’s Sept. 11 memorial ceremony. He suggested that attendees turn their backs on New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani if the mayor attends. Blakeman, whose nephew died in the South Tower, currently serves as Nassau County executive.

Blakeman expressed his feelings, stating, “I would equate this to a wake. You don’t go to a wake if you’re not welcome.” He felt it appropriate for family members to ask Mamdani not to come. However, he recommended a peaceful protest if Mamdani attends, urging people to turn their backs.

According to Blakeman, Mamdani’s failure to denounce the phrase “globalize the intifada” should bar him from the ceremony marking the 25th anniversary of the attacks. Blakeman said, “He’s not welcome there because he has yet to say anything in opposition to the global intifada.”

Mamdani’s office did not respond immediately to Fox News Digital’s request for comment. Despite this, the mayor indicated plans to attend the ceremony. He stated, “I will proudly honor the families, the survivors, the first responders forever impacted by that horrific terror attack by standing alongside them at this year’s 9/11 commemoration.”

Relatives of Sept. 11 victims have initiated a petition to prevent Mamdani from attending due to his perceived hostile rhetoric. The petition on Change.org highlights concerns over Mamdani’s public positions, associations, and responses.

A spokesperson for the 9/11 Memorial & Museum told Fox News Digital about the organization’s non-political stance for the commemoration. They stated, “Government officials from across the political spectrum, including every sitting president, governor, and mayor since 9/11, have attended the ceremony merely to bear witness.”

Former New York Gov. George Pataki commented on the situation, saying his tendency is to be inclusive, but acknowledging the uniqueness of Sept. 11.