Comedian and radio host DL Hughley has come to the defense of New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani, arguing that the Democratic socialist's actions in office reflect Christian values more than his political critics.
In an episode of his podcast, Uncertain with DL Hughley, the comedian pushed back against criticism of Mamdani, questioning why opponents have attacked the mayor for pursuing campaign promises.
“You can’t be mad at a man who's keeping his word, who's trying to make New York more livable,” Hughley said, contrasting Mamdani with President Donald Trump, whom he accused of breaking campaign promises.
“How the f* are you mad at Trump for not keeping his promises and you're mad at Mamdani for keeping his promises?” he said.
Hughley pointed to several of Mamdani's recent initiatives as evidence that the mayor is attempting to govern according to his campaign platform.
The comedian highlighted Mamdani's visit to Rikers Island during the FIFA World Cup, where he joined inmates for a watch party after the city organized viewing events for prisoners who earned the privilege through good behavior.
Hughley also referenced Mamdani's outreach to black New Yorkers, saying the mayor “talked about how a couple of hundred thousand Black people had left New York, and he wanted them to come back.”
The comedian argued that faith should be measured by actions rather than religious identity, saying, “the thing of the matter is, it isn’t who you worship. I think there is more to say for a man that lifts the poor, that feeds the hungry, that employs the people who are unemployable, that walks among people.”
Hughley's comments come as Mamdani continues to draw national attention for his progressive agenda, with supporters praising his focus on affordability while critics argue many of his policies reflect an expansive socialist vision.
