One of New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s appointees has resigned after years-old social media posts resurfaced and were described as antisemitic by the Anti-Defamation League.
Catherine Almonte Da Costa, who had been appointed to lead Mamdani’s Office of Appointments, stepped down following renewed scrutiny of the posts. In a statement, Da Costa said she deeply regretted the remarks and apologized for the harm they caused.
“I expressed deep regret for the posts. These statements are not indicative of who I am,” Da Costa said. “As the mother of Jewish children, I feel a profound sense of sadness and remorse at the harm these words have caused.”
Mayor-elect Mamdani confirmed that he accepted her resignation, saying Da Costa had acknowledged the seriousness of the matter and chose to step aside.
“Catherine expressed her deep remorse over her past statements and tendered her resignation, and I accepted,” Mamdani said.
Supporters of Mamdani argue that the resignation reflects growing expectations of accountability for public officials and say accepting Da Costa’s departure demonstrates responsiveness to concerns about antisemitism rather than indifference.
Critics, however, say the episode raises questions about Mamdani’s judgment and the ideological environment among those close to him, particularly amid heightened sensitivities surrounding antisemitism during the ongoing war in Gaza.
Mamdani, who is set to take office next month, has faced sustained pressure during and after his campaign. He previously drew criticism for initially declining to condemn the phrase “globalize the intifada,” though he has since said he discourages its use.
The story was reported by content partner Modern Newsstand LLC.
