Muslim Mamdani-backed socialist primary winner suggested America deserved 9/11 in unearthed video

Muslim Mamdani-backed Socialist Primary Candidate's 9/11 Remarks Resurface

Controversy Over Anti-American Comments Sparks Debate

Muslim Mamdani backed socialist primary winner - Aber Kawas, a Muslim Mamdani-backed socialist primary candidate running for New York State Senate District 12, has become the focus of renewed scrutiny after a 2017 video surfaced online, in which she suggested the United States "deserved" the September 11, 2001, attacks. The clip, which was previously hidden, has reignited conversations about her views on U.S. policies and how they intersect with broader systemic issues. Kawas, who is backed by socialist New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, has been a prominent advocate for racial justice and immigrant rights, but her remarks have drawn sharp criticism from some Democratic voters.

"The system of capitalism, racism, White supremacy, and Islamophobia has been used to colonize lands and take resources from others, and this is a long trajectory that culminated in 9/11," Kawas stated in a 2017 interview with the Asian American Writers' Association podcast.

Kawas, daughter of illegal immigrants, has centered her campaign on her father's struggles with the U.S. immigration system. The 9/11 video, which highlights her critique of American foreign policy, has been amplified by her emphasis on how systemic oppression contributes to global tensions. While some supporters argue her perspective underscores the connection between U.S. policies and Muslim-American identity, opponents claim the remarks risk muddying her progressive platform in a district known for its liberal leanings.

Political Context and Campaign Strategy

The Muslim Mamdani-backed socialist primary candidate’s comments have become a focal point in the race for New York State Senate District 12. Her alignment with Zohran Mamdani, a vocal socialist leader, has positioned her as a progressive figure, but the 9/11 video has introduced a layer of controversy. Kawas, who identifies as a Palestinian American and community organizer, often ties her advocacy to issues like Gaza and U.S. imperialism. This dual narrative—emphasizing both systemic critique and immigrant resilience—has divided her base, with some questioning whether her remarks align with her campaign’s core message.

Kawas’ father, Abdelkareem Kawas, a Jordanian national, arrived in the U.S. on a tourist visa in 1989 and stayed for over three decades, according to the New York Post. His eventual deportation, following a conviction for real estate fraud, has become a symbol of the challenges faced by immigrants and people of color. "This is not just about my father, but about the systemic persecution of immigrants and the way their stories are weaponized," Kawas explained, framing her 9/11 remarks as part of a larger critique of U.S. policies.

Reactions and Implications

The 9/11 video has sparked a polarized response. Conservative and moderate Democrats have criticized Kawas for what they see as a lack of patriotism, while her supporters argue she is highlighting the deep roots of the issues that led to the attacks. In a November 2025 interview, Kawas defended her comments, calling them "contextual" and "not an endorsement of the attacks themselves." "I’ve always spoken out against the scapegoating of Muslim Americans," she said, "and 9/11 is just one example of that pattern."

Her opponent, Steven Raga, a Democratic Assemblyman, has argued that the video could overshadow the key issues facing the district. "Her comments risk overshadowing the real priorities for Queens residents," Raga stated, noting the importance of maintaining a unified front in the race. Meanwhile, the Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR), which Kawas aligns with, has been a target of criticism in some states for its advocacy on behalf of Muslim communities. This has added another layer to the debate over her 9/11 remarks and their impact on her candidacy.