Mayor Zohran Mamdani's administration is facing criticism over its selection process for a panel that recommends potential judges, with opponents pointing to what they describe as a double standard in vetting candidates. The controversy centers on the rejection of John Leventhal, a candidate whose past appellate work for Ghislaine Maxwell reportedly led to his disqualification due to ties to "the Epstein world."
Conversely, the mayor's office has appointed Ramzi Kassem, identified as a lawyer who has defended individuals accused of terrorism, to a confidential, high-level advisory role. Kassem's legal work has included representing Ahmed al-Darbi, who was involved in a 2002 oil tanker bombing off the coast of Yemen, and other Guantanamo Bay detainees. The notes also state Kassem has expressed beliefs that Jews came to the Middle East with the intention of conquering the land.
Further scrutiny has been directed at the appointment of Soffiyah Elijah to the judicial-advisory board. Elijah reportedly specializes in defending individuals convicted of killing police officers, whom she refers to as "political prisoners." Her past clients and advocacy include figures such as Marilyn Buck, Sundiata Acoli, Mumia Abu-Jamal, and Mutulu Shakur.
Critics argue that Leventhal, who had a distinguished career as a state judge, is being unfairly excluded based on his past client associations, while individuals with connections to alleged terrorists and cop-killers are deemed suitable for advisory positions. The disparity, according to critics, suggests a political litmus test that favors advocates for radical figures over lawyers with ties to controversial but not explicitly terrorist-linked cases.