Zohran Mamdani’s mayoral campaign took a literal hit at Brooklyn’s Men’s Day event when he floundered under a barbell.
The 33-year-old Socialist and Democratic Party nominee for mayor struggled mightily at the annual open streets event, failing to lift a 135-pound barbell without a spotter’s help, as the New York Post reports. Mamdani, attempting to flex his community engagement, instead showcased a physical weakness that political rivals pounced on with glee.
The event, held on Saturday along Eastern Parkway, saw Mamdani try to bench press with assistance from a spotter from “500 Men Making a Difference.” His two reps required full support, and he graciously thanked the spotter afterward. But the damage was done -- his rivals smelled blood.
Mayor Eric Adams, never one to miss a chance to dunk on a competitor, posted a video of himself breezing through multiple bench press reps. His spotter barely touched the bar, a not-so-subtle jab at Mamdani’s flub. Adams’ swagger underscored his point: experience trumps youth.
“64 vs 33. A lifetime of hard work vs. a silver spoon,” Adams quipped, framing Mamdani as an out-of-touch elitist. The mayor’s barb cuts deep, painting the younger candidate as unprepared for the gritty realities of leading New York City.
Former Gov. Andrew Cuomo joined the pile-on, quoting a report to say, “It’s easy to talk, it’s hard to carry the burden.” Cuomo’s words imply Mamdani lacks the strength -- physical and metaphorical -- to handle the city’s challenges. The ex-governor’s critique resonates with those wary of progressive promises.
Mamdani, undeterred, mingled with Brooklynites, snapping selfies near the Brooklyn Museum. His walk down Eastern Parkway was a calculated move to connect with voters. Yet the bench press blunder overshadowed his charm offensive.
The candidate, born in Uganda, showed off his soccer skills, kicking a ball at an inflatable target. He ditched his designer boots for the stunt, a nod to authenticity that conservatives might see as pandering. Mamdani’s flair for soccer, Uganda’s national sport, didn’t erase the gym gaffe.
“It is such a pleasure to be here,” Mamdani told dozens of attendees, praising the event’s community spirit. His words sound earnest but ring hollow when rivals question his readiness. Gratitude doesn’t lift barbells or solve city problems.
Adams didn’t stop at one jab, calling Mamdani “Mamscrawny” and warning, “The weight of the job is too heavy for ‘Mamscrawny.’” The nickname, cruel but catchy, fuels doubts about Mamdani’s leadership grit. Social media amplified the burn, making it a viral moment.
Cuomo doubled down, stating, “This guy can’t bench his own body weight, let alone carry the weight of leading the most important city in the world.” The former governor’s harsh take aligns with conservative skepticism of Mamdani’s progressive agenda. Strength, they argue, isn’t just physical -- it’s mental toughness.
Mamdani’s response was to keep campaigning, declaring, “I look forward to being your next mayor, next year.” Bold words, but conservatives see them as empty bravado from a candidate who can’t handle a barbell. Leadership demands more than photo ops and promises.
Men’s Day, an annual Brooklyn event, features outdoor gyms, music, and car shows, drawing crowds to celebrate community. Mamdani’s participation, including a DJ set and remarks, aimed to tap into this vibrant scene. Yet his physical misstep stole the spotlight.
While Mamdani’s soccer kicks and selfies showed engagement, conservatives question his priorities. A mayor needs to tackle crime and taxes, not just pose for pictures. The event’s festive vibe couldn’t mask the candidate’s stumble.
For now, Mamdani’s campaign marches on, but the bench press flop has given rivals ammunition. Adams and Cuomo, seasoned political brawlers, know how to exploit weakness. In a city that demands strength, Mamdani’s Saturday slip-up may linger longer than his selfies.