In the first debate for the New York City Democratic mayoral primary, nine candidates unanimously criticized the Trump administration's actions targeting universities over pro-Palestinian protests. Andrew Cuomo emphasized the need to oppose such perceived authoritarianism, agreeing that stripping accreditation from Columbia University constituted an overreach. Zohran Mamdani, supportive of the boycott movement against Israel, asserted that Trump’s actions reflect a broader attack on democracy. The candidates also called for the release of Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia graduate facing deportation in connection with protests, though investor Whitney Tilson demanded more information before commenting on the case.
"He is literally attacking the foundation of democracy, and he must be opposed at every turn," Cuomo said.
"This is yet another example of the Trump administration's gross overreach - one they've shown they'll continue with any university they choose to target," Mamdani said.
"He shouldn't have been detained in the first place," Cuomo said regarding Mahmoud Khalil.
"I can't answer the question without knowing all the facts right now," Tilson expressed about Khalil's situation.
Collection
[
|
...
]