Mayor Zohran Mamdani stated on Monday that he will continue to work with Morris Katz, who serves as a top adviser to the mayor. Mamdani's remarks came after members of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) urged their colleagues to cut ties with Katz. The pressure on Katz stems from his involvement with the failed U.S. Senate campaign of Graham Platner.
Katz, 27, was a strategist for Platner's campaign, which was marred by several controversies. These included allegations of the candidate's Nazi ties and accusations of mistreatment of women. Katz reportedly stood by Platner until a rape allegation emerged against the candidate.
A letter circulating within the New York City DSA chapter called for members to distance themselves from Katz following the implosion of Platner's candidacy. The letter contended that Katz was instrumental in recruiting Platner and promoting his campaign through various means, including video production and media placements. It also stated that Katz continued to support Platner's campaign even as scandals mounted, thereby preventing the possibility of replacing Platner before the primary election.