Bruce Blakeman, the Republican gubernatorial hopeful and Nassau County executive whose nephew died in the South Tower on Sept. 11, is urging families and attendees at this year’s commemoration to make their feelings known if New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani shows up, arguing that his past remarks and associations make him unwelcome at a ceremony meant for victims and survivors. Families have launched a petition seeking to bar the mayor, Mamdani says he intends to attend, and the memorial organization insists the event remain apolitical.
Blakeman, who carries a personal loss from that day, framed the debate in stark, raw terms during a press appearance. “I would equate this to a wake. You don’t go to a wake if you’re not welcome,” he said, invoking the idea that certain spaces belong first to grieving families. That language lands hard because he is not speaking as a distant observer but as someone who lost family on 9/11.
He also urged a measured but visible response if the mayor attends, laying out a way for people to register their objection without escalating tensions. “I think it’s completely appropriate if family members ask him not to come, but if he does come, I think there’s a respectful and peaceful way to protest that and I would suggest that people turn their back on the mayor,” he said. The call is for a symbolic, solemn rebuke rather than chants or confrontations.
At the core of Blakeman’s stance is Mamdani’s handling of the phrase “globalize the intifada” and the perception that he has not clearly condemned it. “He’s not welcome there because he has yet to say anything in opposition to the global intifada. As a matter of fact, it seems like he supports that phrase, which is part of the reason why we had the tragedy we had on 9/11,” Blakeman said, tying past rhetoric to present concerns. That line of argument aims to make a moral link between public statements and trust at a memorial.
Mamdani has pushed back by saying he will attend to honor those who were lost and those who responded to the attacks, framing his presence as an act of solidarity. “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 — reaffirming that we will never forget the solemn day…” he said, stressing his intent to stand with the community. That pledge, however, has not stopped families from expressing alarm and asking organizers to reconsider.
Relatives of victims launched a petition arguing that Mamdani’s public positions raise legitimate concerns about whether his presence fits the spirit of the event. “Concerns have been raised about Mr. Mamdani’s public positions, associations, and responses to rhetoric that many perceive as hostile to these shared values,” the petition states, spelling out why some families want him excluded. “Given these concerns, we respectfully ask that the organizers carefully consider whether Mr. Mamdani’s participation would align with the intention of the ceremony and the expectations of the families most directly affected by the tragedy.”
The organization that administers the remembrance has noted its long-standing effort to keep the ceremony free of partisan conflict and to prioritize families above politics. “Intentionally worked to keep the commemoration free of politics because remembering those we lost on 9/11 should never be a partisan issue,” a spokesperson said, reinforcing the idea that the event is meant to be a neutral space. “Government officials from across the political spectrum, including every sitting president, governor, and mayor since 9/11, have attended the ceremony simply to bear witness — they do not deliver remarks and are asked to remain in a designated area,” the statement continued, underscoring customary practices.
Voices across the political spectrum have reacted, with some saying inclusivity is their instinct but acknowledging the unique sensitivity of Sept. 11. “It’s my nature to be inclusive, and that is my instinct, but Sept. 11 is different. So, I may have comments on that,” one former governor said, reflecting how even moderates recognize the distinct rules that should govern the day. That view captures the tension between open civic participation and protecting a sacred space for grieving families.
This dispute presents a basic question for organizers and attendees: how to balance the mayor’s stated intention to honor victims with the deep reservations of families who feel his record conflicts with the memory being honored. The answer will require judgment, restraint, and a willingness to privilege the voices of those who lived the loss, because on Sept. 11 the needs of survivors and families should come first.
Darnell Thompkins is a Canadian-born American and conservative opinion writer who brings a unique perspective to political and cultural discussions. Passionate about traditional values and individual freedoms, Darnell’s commentary reflects his commitment to fostering meaningful dialogue. When he’s not writing, he enjoys watching hockey and celebrating the sport that connects his Canadian roots with his American journey.