Senator Elizabeth Warren has openly criticized the controversial phrase “globalize the intifada,” which has sparked backlash around New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani. Speaking on CNBC’s Squawk Box, Warren expressed discomfort with the slogan, saying, “It’s not something I would say,” and noted Mamdani himself had promised to discourage others from using it.
Pressed repeatedly by co-host Andrew Ross Sorkin, Warren initially hesitated to outright condemn the phrase but eventually stated, “Of course I do. This is not the way we should talk. If this encourages violence in any way, then I am opposed to it. I am a no-violence person. I think it’s a very, very bad idea.”
Mamdani has faced criticism for his refusal to directly denounce the phrase during several interviews, including on Meet the Press and The Bulwark podcast. When asked multiple times to condemn the slogan, Mamdani deflected, later telling The New York Times he would not use it and would discourage its use.
Despite the controversy, Warren praised Mamdani’s bold campaign platform, highlighting his focus on affordability and social equity. She noted that his grassroots strategy had shaken traditional power structures, saying, “Big-time investors are freaking out because he didn’t bow to them. He went directly to the people.”
Mamdani’s proposals include introducing government-owned grocery stores, implementing a tax on New York City’s wealthiest 1%, and measures to “Trump-proof” the city.
