Mamdani slammed for jetting to ‘luxury resort’ for Puerto Rico conference during shutdown
Zohran Mamdani speaks during a victory speech at a mayoral election night watch party in New York, Nov. 4, 2025. (Yuki Iwamura/AP Photo)
Posted For: Rotorblade
FIRST ON FOX: A New York Republican is criticizing New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani for traveling to a political conference in Puerto Rico just days after his election victory — and amid the longest government shutdown in U.S. history.
“If Zohran Mamdani is truly serious about helping working families, he wouldn’t be jetting off to a luxury resort the moment he wins an election,” Rep. Mike Lawler, R-N.Y., told Fox News Digital.
According to Fox News Digital, Mamdani is set to attend the 2025 SOMOS Conference in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on Thursday. The newly elected mayor is expected to appear at a cocktail reception hosted by New York Attorney General Letitia James, according to a schedule obtained by the outlet.
Lawler questioned whether other top New York Democrats — including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, and Governor Kathy Hochul — also plan to attend.
“If so, why? Who’s looking out for New Yorkers while they’re on the beach?” Lawler asked.
Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., whom Lawler also mentioned, is not attending the event.
“It’s a disgrace — and it’s exactly why New Yorkers are leaving this state in droves,” Lawler said. “I’m calling on every reporter covering SOMOS to demand answers from these Democrats. Ask them why they’re partying in Puerto Rico while New Yorkers are suffering through an affordability crisis and a government shutdown. The public deserves to know where their priorities really lie.”
The annual SOMOS conference serves as a major policy summit for New York’s political leaders and policymakers, drawing attendees from both parties. This year’s event is being held at the El Caribe Hilton in San Juan — a venue described on its website as an “iconic beachfront paradise” with 17 acres of tropical landscaping, multiple restaurants, a spa, and an oceanfront pool complex.
The multi-day gathering features receptions, luncheons, and panels on issues such as human services and workforce development. The conference concludes Saturday with a “Toes in the Sand Beachfront Party.”
Mamdani, a self-described socialist who ran on the Democratic Party ticket, defeated Republican Curtis Sliwa and former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo on Tuesday to become one of the youngest mayors in modern city history.
President Trump has not yet commented on the matter.
About Post Author
