Bill Maher Criticizes Zohran Mamdani’s Response to Oct 7 Anniversary

Comedian Bill Maher took a humorous jab at New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani regarding his statement on the third anniversary of the Oct. 7 Hamas terrorist attack in Israel. On his show ‘Real Time,’ Maher expressed disapproval of Mamdani’s comments, suggesting that the mayor’s hypothetical rap name could be ‘Tone Deaf.’

Mamdani’s statement on the anniversary described the day as ‘profoundly painful’ for many New Yorkers, noting the shared grief for the unthinkable loss. Mamdani expressed criticism of Israel’s ongoing defensive actions, referring to them as part of a ‘devastating, ongoing genocide in Gaza.’ He cited more than 74,000 Palestinian deaths, including over 21,000 children.

Mamdani stated, ‘The suffering did not begin nor end that day.’

At a vigil held for peace, anti-Israel demonstrators attempted to disrupt proceedings by making noise. Mamdani highlighted additional Palestinian casualties since a mentioned ceasefire, urging action against occupation, apartheid, and federal complicity through arms shipments.

Mamdani remarked, ‘To honor the dead, we must fight for a world in which every person can live with freedom, safety, and dignity.’

Maher criticized Mamdani’s commentary, mocking past allegations of ‘moral confusion’ among celebrities, linking such views to rising antisemitism. Referring to Mamdani’s past as a rapper, Maher quipped about his stage names ‘Young Cardamom’ and ‘Mr. Cardamom,’ suggesting the name ‘Tone Deaf.’

Earlier criticisms of Mamdani were sparked by his visit to a Palestinian-owned restaurant, which faced backlash in 2023 for its menu featuring language deemed antisemitic.

Democratic strategist Kaivan Shroff commented that Maher’s critique might inadvertently help Mamdani politically. Shroff noted Mamdani’s actions align with aspects of his base’s concerns, casting his statement as a strategic move akin to the ‘Trump playbook.’

Maher’s critique might, according to Shroff, affirm Mamdani’s adherence to his campaign promises for some supporters. The lack of an immediate response from Mamdani’s administration to Fox News Digital was noted.