Zohran Mamdani, a candidate in the New York City mayoral race, is facing heightened scrutiny after reports revealed that his campaign received close to $13,000 (around Rs 11 lakh) from foreign contributors. U.S. election law prohibits candidates from accepting donations from non-U.S. citizens or residents, making these revelations particularly sensitive.

According to records from the New York City Campaign Finance Board (CFB), Mamdani’s campaign collected roughly 54,000 donations, with around 170 of these originating from outside the United States. Among these, a $2,100 (approx. Rs 1.74 lakh) contribution from Ada Diaz Ahmed, a Dubai-based investor and Mamdani’s mother-in-law, has drawn significant attention.

Currently, Mamdani’s team has not returned 88 foreign donations, which together total approximately $7,190 (Rs 6 lakh). The campaign issued a statement assuring compliance with election law:

“We will, of course, return any donations that are not in compliance with CFB law.”

Fundraising Success and Campaign Spending

Mamdani’s mayoral bid has seen impressive fundraising numbers:

• Private donations: Rs 33.2 crore

• Public matching funds: Rs 105.4 crore

Despite major spending on advertising, rallies, and staff salaries, his campaign reportedly has Rs 50.6 crore remaining, surpassing the funds raised by former Governor Andrew Cuomo in the same timeframe (Rs 4.21 crore).

This strong financial position gives Mamdani a significant advantage in the crowded field of candidates, though the foreign donation issue could overshadow his fundraising achievements.

Reactions from Opponents

Republican contender Curtis Sliwa expressed concern over the foreign contributions, stating:

“Where there's smoke, there's fire. I would be very concerned. There is probably more foreign money involved than we know.”

Sliwa has previously urged the Department of Justice to investigate potential illegal campaign financing, pointing to the possibility of “dark money” being funneled to Mamdani’s campaign through foreign nationals.

Public Debate and Legal Implications

Supporters of Mamdani argue that the candidate is running an inclusive, grassroots-focused campaign that welcomes widespread participation. Critics, however, contend that even unintentional acceptance of foreign funds could raise serious legal and ethical questions under U.S. election regulations.

This controversy highlights the intense scrutiny on campaign finance in the New York City mayoral race and serves as a reminder of the legal obligations candidates face when soliciting contributions.