New York State Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent criticized Democratic Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani during recent remarks, calling him “clearly the leader of the Democratic Party now” and accusing him of promoting policies that “have never worked.”
Bessent, speaking about Mamdani’s growing influence within New York’s progressive wing, argued that the lawmaker represents a shift in the Democratic Party’s direction. “He’s a young man with a lot of old ideas that have never worked,” Bessent said, challenging supporters to identify “one example where policies like his led to anything other than a decline.”
Bessent also questioned Mamdani’s ability to govern effectively beyond campaigning. “It’s easy to run a campaign. But the practical everyday… we’ll see,” he said.
During his comments, Bessent noted that Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer had not endorsed Mamdani and claimed he was unsure whether Schumer had even met with him. He contrasted this with the stance of President Trump, saying the administration “wants the best for New Yorkers.”
Mamdani, a prominent progressive from Queens known for supporting left-wing housing and economic reforms, has not yet responded publicly to Bessent’s remarks.
