Post by : Rameen Ariff

New York City: A senior appointee chosen by New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani has stepped down after old social media posts containing antisemitic language resurfaced online. The Zohran Mamdani appointee resignation was confirmed on Thursday, December 19, 2025.

Catherine Almonte Da Costa, who was appointed earlier this week to join Mamdani’s incoming administration, resigned after posts she shared more than a decade ago were widely circulated. The posts, dating back to 2011 and 2012, were flagged and shared by the Anti-Defamation League.

Old Posts Spark Controversy

According to Mamdani’s office, the social media posts included language that echoed harmful antisemitic stereotypes and offended Jewish communities. Once the posts resurfaced, the issue quickly gained attention, putting pressure on the mayor-elect’s team.

In a public statement, Da Costa expressed deep regret over her past words. She said the statements do not reflect who she is today and acknowledged the hurt they caused.

“As the mother of Jewish children, I feel deep sadness and remorse for the pain my words caused,” she said.

Role in the New Administration

Da Costa had been selected to lead Zohran Mamdani’s Office of Appointments. The role involved overseeing talent recruitment and helping build the mayor-elect’s administration.

She previously worked in the mayor’s office more than ten years ago. In recent years, she held senior positions at a private communications firm and at Sotheby’s, according to officials.

Despite her professional background, the resurfacing of the posts led to the Zohran Mamdani appointee resignation, which was accepted immediately.

Mamdani Accepts Resignation

Zohran Mamdani confirmed that he accepted Da Costa’s resignation after she expressed remorse for her past remarks.

“She acknowledged the harm caused by her words and chose to step down. I accepted her decision,” Mamdani said through a spokesperson.

The Anti-Defamation League declined further comment after the resignation but had earlier shared screenshots of three posts it said promoted antisemitic ideas.

Political Pressure and Wider Context

Following Mamdani’s election victory in November, several advocacy groups announced plans to closely monitor his policies and staffing decisions. The scrutiny increased due to Mamdani’s strong criticism of Israel’s military actions in Gaza.

Mamdani has faced repeated questions about whether his political stance crosses into antisemitism. During his campaign, he drew criticism for not clearly condemning the phrase “globalize the intifada.” More recently, he has said he discourages the use of that phrase.

The Zohran Mamdani appointee resignation comes as the mayor-elect prepares to take office next month and works to assure New Yorkers that his administration will be inclusive and respectful of all communities.

A Sensitive Moment for the Incoming Mayor

This incident highlights the challenges Mamdani faces as he builds his leadership team under intense public and political scrutiny. The resignation has sparked debate about accountability, past online behavior, and standards for public officials.

As Mamdani moves closer to assuming office, the Zohran Mamdani appointee resignation is likely to remain part of the broader discussion around leadership, responsibility, and trust in public service.

#Global News