A call to action reverberated through the SOMOS political conference in Puerto Rico, as activist Linda Sarsour urged the removal of Democrats perceived as supportive of Israel. Her words, delivered with unmistakable fervor, targeted those she labeled “corporate Democrats,” framing their positions as detrimental to a cause she champions.
Sarsour’s remarks came during a panel discussion titled “Colonialism, Resistance and Solidarity: Puerto Rico and Palestine,” a setting that underscored the passionate convictions driving her message. She presented a stark ultimatum: align with her vision or face potential consequences at the ballot box, suggesting political survival hinges on ideological conformity.
Joining Sarsour in this assertive stance was City Council member Alexa Aviles, a member of the Democratic Socialists of America. Aviles, currently considering a challenge to incumbent Representative Dan Goldman, echoed the sentiment, advocating for the elimination of “corporate Democrats” allegedly supported by the American Israel Public Affairs Committee.
The connection between these voices and Zohran Mamdani, the newly elected mayor, is significant. Both Sarsour and Aviles have been prominent supporters of Mamdani, who himself is a member of the Democratic Socialists of America, creating a network of aligned political figures.
Mamdani was scheduled to attend a reception hosted by Attorney General Letitia James at the SOMOS conference, a gathering of New York political leaders following recent elections. Governor Kathy Hochul was also slated to address a separate reception later that evening, adding to the high-profile nature of the event.
The conference, a traditional post-election meeting place for New York politicians, became a platform for pointed political statements, highlighting divisions within the Democratic party and the growing influence of progressive voices advocating for significant change.
