New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani is facing fresh backlash after suggesting that part of the city’s increase in reported rapes can be explained by a broader legal definition of the crime.
During an interview with PIX11 News on Monday, reporter Dan Mannarino asked Mamdani about concerns raised by New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin over rising rape and felony assault numbers.
Mamdani pointed to historically low murder and shooting totals reported by the NYPD before arguing that the rape statistics require additional context.
“And what I think is important to know is a lot of the increase in rape also comes from an expanded definition of what counts as rape, as well as survivors coming forward for acts that took place years prior,” Mamdani said. “And we are thankful for them coming forward, the courage and the bravery it takes, but just to provide New Yorkers with that context.”
The remarks quickly drew criticism online. While some supporters argued Mamdani was simply explaining the data rather than minimizing sexual violence, critics accused him of brushing aside a troubling rise in reported rapes.
Democratic New York City Council member Susan Zhuang was among those who pushed back.
“Expanding the legal definition of rape was an important step toward recognizing more survivors under the law. But it should never be used to deflect from the responsibility to reduce sexual violence. Survivors deserve leadership, action, accountability, and justice. They don’t deserve deflection,” Zhuang wrote.
Women’s sports activist Riley Gaines also criticized the mayor, posting, “HOW did women vote for this guy?”
Republican Texas Rep. Chip Roy wrote, “Rapes are up. Rents are up. Foreign diseases and parasites spreading. Historic Churches burning left and right. Elect the third world, get the third world.”
OutKick founder Clay Travis mocked the mayor‘s explanation, writing, “Sure, New York City rents hit an all time record high today, but at least the mayor is still very eloquent on social medi…whoops!”
“Going great,” RedState writer Bonchie commented.
Pro-Israel activist Lizzy Savetzky wrote, “Didn’t realize rape had a dynamic definition.”
Substack writer Jim Treacher added, “No wonder these guys saw no problem with Platner.”
Zohran Mamdani’s reference to an “expanded definition” appears to point to New York’s Rape is Rape Act, which Gov. Kathy Hochul signed into law in January 2024. The measure took effect in September 2024 and broadened the state’s legal definition of rape to include nonconsensual or forcibly compelled oral and anal sexual conduct, replacing the previous definition that was limited to vaginal penetration by a penis.
Even so, the NYPD’s latest CompStat report, released last week, shows reported rapes are up 6.6% compared with the same point last year, despite the expanded legal definition already being in effect throughout the comparison period.
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