Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots, has voiced his disappointment following the election of Zohran Mamdani as the mayor of New York City. Kraft described Mamdani”s victory speech as “sad” and criticized its divisive nature.
Mamdani, a young democratic-socialist, made history by defeating veteran politician and former Governor Andrew Cuomo in a record-breaking election, thus becoming the 111th mayor of New York City. His grassroots campaign propelled him into office as the youngest mayor in the city”s modern history.
However, Mamdani”s victory speech did not resonate well with many observers, including CNN anchor Van Jones, who faced backlash for his critique of the 25-minute address. Jones remarked that Mamdani”s speech represented a “character switch,” suggesting that the warm persona he portrayed during his campaign was absent during his speech.
Kraft echoed these concerns, expressing his disappointment with Mamdani”s remarks. “It”s sad to me that a man can get elected in the city of New York, the No. 1 city in America, with a lot of beliefs,” Kraft stated in an interview with FOX News and Outkick. “When I heard him come out and speak after he won, I thought he was going to be more of a unifier. I think he spoke out in a way that showed divisiveness. And that really hurt me.”
Mamdani began his speech with a quote from Eugene Debs, proclaiming, “The sun may have set over our city this evening, but as Eugene Debs once said, “I can see the dawn of a better day for humanity.”” He emphasized that New York would remain a city of immigrants, asserting that his leadership marks a generational shift where younger voices take precedence over older ones. Mamdani stated, “We won because we insisted that no longer would politics be something that is done to us. Now, it is something that we do.”
Kraft, who is 84 years old, expressed concern that Mamdani”s speech highlighted issues not in line with America”s interests, remarking, “I mean, he”s tapped into something that resonates with people under 30 or 35 who feel that America isn”t living up to certain values. We should pay attention to that. But not to the divisiveness and hate and, really, things that aren”t in America”s best interest.”
“And it”s a little sad for me to see that happen in the year 2025,” Kraft continued. “We have to find a way to get a better understanding and educate the people who think they”re solving a problem, but creating a bigger problem.”
