House Republicans are weighing the use of the 14th Amendment’s “insurrection clause” to block New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani from taking office. The effort, initiated by the New York Young Republican Club, claims that Mamdani’s political affiliations and remarks critical of federal immigration enforcement could violate constitutional standards for loyalty to the United States.
Several GOP lawmakers believe a recent Supreme Court ruling gives Congress authority to enforce Section 3 and are considering a resolution declaring Mamdani ineligible for office. Others, including Reps. Andy Ogles and Randy Fine, have asked the Justice Department to review Mamdani’s citizenship, alleging inconsistencies in his naturalization oath and political disclosures. Legal analysts, however, say these claims face steep constitutional and evidentiary barriers.
Mamdani has rejected the allegations, calling them politically motivated attempts to overturn an election result. The Justice Department confirmed it received the congressional inquiry but offered no comment on potential investigations, leaving the controversy to unfold amid growing partisan tension over the boundaries of constitutional power.
