House Republican Introduces “MAMDANI Act” to Cut Federal Funds to New York City

A House Republican is seeking to block all federal funding to New York City for the duration of Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s tenure. The proposal, introduced by Rep. Buddy Carter (R-Ga.), is titled the Moving American Money Distant from Anti-National Interests Act — pointedly abbreviated as the “MAMDANI Act.” The two-page bill states that “during any period in which Zohran Mamdani is mayor of New York, New York,” all unobligated federal funds to the city “are hereby rescinded,” and no new funds “may be obligated or expended.” Fox News Digital reported that Carter plans to introduce the legislation on Friday.

Mamdani, a 34-year-old democratic socialist, won Tuesday’s New York City mayoral race, defeating independent Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa. Though Carter’s bill is unlikely to pass, it reflects a growing Republican effort to use Mamdani as a symbol of what they call the Democratic Party’s far-left turn. GOP strategists say they plan to link vulnerable Democrats nationwide to Mamdani’s “radical” policies. Carter, who is running for the U.S. Senate in Georgia, said taxpayers in his state “should not be forced to prop up a city that’s choosing socialism.” He added, “If New Yorkers want communism, let them have it — but Georgia won’t pay for it.”

Mamdani has faced immediate criticism since his victory. His post-election video thanking supporters and encouraging small-dollar donations to fund his transition team drew backlash online, with critics accusing him of “begging for money” less than a day after winning. Meanwhile, CNN commentator Van Jones described Mamdani’s victory speech as “sharp” and “uncharacteristically aggressive,” contrasting it with the calm demeanor he showed during the campaign. Despite the controversy, Mamdani told supporters, “Together we made history. Now let’s get to work.”