ADL launches initiative to track Mamdani's policies

Key Concepts

• Mamdani Monitor: An initiative launched by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) to monitor the policies and appointments of the incoming New York administration under Mayor-elect Eric Adams.
• Anti-Semitism: Hostility to, prejudice toward, or discrimination against Jews.
• BDS Movement (Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions): A Palestinian-led movement that promotes boycotts, divestments, and sanctions against Israel.
• Intifada: A Palestinian uprising against Israeli occupation.
• ADL (Anti-Defamation League): A leading organization fighting anti-Semitism and all forms of hate.
• "Laundering Hate": A term used to describe the act of subtly promoting hateful ideologies, often through seemingly innocuous platforms or interviews.
• Heritage Foundation: A conservative think tank.

ADL's "Mamdani Monitor" Initiative

The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and its CEO, Jonathan Greenblatt, have launched an initiative called the "Mamdani Monitor" to closely observe the incoming administration in New York, led by Mayor-elect Eric Adams. The ADL's stated goal is to monitor Adams' policies and appointments to ensure the safety and protection of Jewish New Yorkers.

Mayor-elect Adams' Response

Mayor-elect Eric Adams stated that he has not yet spoken with Jonathan Greenblatt but takes the issue of anti-Semitism "incredibly seriously." He emphasized his commitment to standing "steadfast with Jewish New Yorkers in fighting the scourge of anti-Semitism" and pledged to deliver on actions from January 1st. He also expressed his anticipation of working with Jewish leaders across the city.

ADL's Concerns and Justification for the Monitor

Jonathan Greenblatt explained that the ADL's concerns stem from comments, endorsed policies, and pushed ideas by Mayor-elect Adams over the years that they believe have endangered Jewish New Yorkers, particularly at a time when anti-Semitism has reached "all-time highs." The "Mamdani Monitor" is designed to track the administration's actions "without bias" and "without prejudging." The ADL intends to scrutinize appointments, personnel, policies, and programs to ensure they contribute to the safety of Jewish New Yorkers.

Jewish Voter Support for Mayor-elect Adams

Greenblatt acknowledged that 32% of self-identified Jewish voters in New York supported Mayor-elect Adams, according to exit polls. He attributed this support, particularly among younger Jewish voters, to Adams' "powerful message on affordability." However, he highlighted specific concerns, including Adams' promotion of ideas like the BDS movement, which he argued, despite claims of non-violence, actually "increases violence." Another concern cited was Adams' suggestion to cut ties with the Cornell University facility on Roosevelt Island, not due to research quality or graduation rates, but because of its connection to an Israeli university. Greenblatt also mentioned Adams "dignifying the comment" and "glorifying the Intifada" as actions that make Jews "nervous."

Real-World Impact of Anti-Semitism

Greenblatt provided a stark example of the current climate, mentioning that "this morning in Brooklyn, blood red swastikas were painted all over a Jewish school." While crediting Mayor-elect Adams for calling out this incident on X (formerly Twitter), Greenblatt stressed the need for policies and programs that go beyond mere condemnation, aiming to create a city where "Jewish New Yorkers and all New Yorkers feel safe, regardless of where they worship or, you know, where they're from."

ADL's Willingness to Engage with the Mayor

Greenblatt expressed the ADL's readiness to meet with Mayor-elect Adams, stating, "If he wants to meet with me, I will meet with him today." He clarified that the ADL's role is not to align with any political party but to "call balls and strikes." He emphasized the ADL's obligation to work with elected officials and policymakers to ensure the safety of Jewish people. He also indicated that any meeting would ideally include other communal and spiritual leaders.

Concerns Regarding Tucker Carlson and Nick Fuentes

Greenblatt also addressed the ongoing conversation in Republican circles about Tucker Carlson and Nick Fuentes. He stated that "neither side of the spectrum is immune from anti-Semitism" and that "intolerance happens on both sides." He described Carlson's interview with Fuentes as "repellent" and accused Carlson of "laundering hate for years, specifically anti-Jewish bias," including Holocaust deniers and anti-Zionists.

Republican Party's Response to Fuentes

Greenblatt noted that he was "pleased that Kevin Roberts called out Nick Fuentes' disgusting anti-Jewish hatred." However, he questioned why some in the Republican Party, citing figures like Ted Cruz, Dave McCormick, and Lindsey Graham, seemed to "run cover for Tucker Carlson." He urged the Republican Party to "figure this out."

Call for a Strong Center

Greenblatt expressed hope that the issues of anti-Zionism and anti-Semitism on the "far left" and the actions of figures like Fuentes and Carlson on the right would be addressed, allowing for the re-emergence of a "strong center where everyone is accepted."

Call for President Trump's Intervention

Regarding the Tucker Carlson and Nick Fuentes situation, Greenblatt suggested that it would be a "positive development" if former President Trump were to weigh in. He highlighted Trump's Jewish grandchildren, daughter, and son-in-law, his support for Israel, and his past support for the Jewish community on college campuses. Greenblatt believes Trump has "no stronger voice on these issues" and that his intervention could be "very, very powerful."