Comedian Bill Maher engaged in a heated discussion with Rep. Jason Crow, D-Colo., on Friday regarding New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani. Maher challenged Crow's dismissal of criticism aimed at Mamdani, labeling it as a “contrived villain or boogeyman.” Maher asserted, “He’s not contrived. He’s gonna be the mayor of New York.”

During the conversation, Maher highlighted Mamdani’s radical views, including his support for the “abolition of private property.” He stated, “There’s a lot of opposition [to Mamdani] because we’ve never had someone this radical.” Maher further emphasized that Mamdani’s quotes, such as “each according to their need,” reflect Marxist ideology, which he described as “straight up Communism.”

In response, Rep. Crow argued that the portrayal of Mamdani as a villain is a recurring tactic used by Republicans during election cycles. “They always try to create a villain is my point,” he said, adding that this strategy is not new. Maher countered, insisting, “No, these are quotes. I’m not creating anything, I’m quoting [Mamdani].”

Columnist James Kirchick, the second guest on Maher’s show, joined the debate, criticizing Mamdani’s reception among conservatives. Kirchick claimed, “Everything that the crazy far-right alleged about Obama – wasn’t born in America, Islamist, socialist, antisemite, hates America, it’s all true about this guy [Mamdani].”

Kirchick expressed particular concern over Mamdani’s defense of the phrase “globalize the intifada,” which he described as a call to violence against Jews. “It means kill Jews whenever and wherever you can find them,” Kirchick stated. He also criticized Democrats for not denouncing Mamdani, comparing their inaction to Republicans who previously supported Donald Trump. “I feel with this guy we’re seeing the same sort of cowardice and spinelessness,” Kirchick asserted.

In July, Mamdani reportedly told business leaders that he would not use the phrase “globalize the intifada” and would discourage others from using it. A survey conducted by the American Pulse polling firm in July indicated that 30% of New York City voters support Mamdani’s stance on the phrase and his backing of the anti-Israel boycott movement.