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Throughout his campaign, Mamdani has labeled Israeli policy “genocide” and “apartheid,” and has repeatedly refused to denounce the slogan “Globalize the intifada.
By JBN Staff
Apollo Global Management CEO Marc Rowan tore into New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani on Monday night, accusing the Democratic socialist of normalizing antisemitism and warning Jewish New Yorkers to prepare for “dark times.”
Rowan delivered the remarks at UJA-Federation’s annual Wall Street dinner at the Marriott Marquis, where nearly 2,000 donors gathered for one of the organization’s largest fundraising events.
“Someone who uses antisemitism in their campaign and normalizes antisemitism — he is our enemy,” Rowan warned. “We should make no mistake, we face challenges at home. I don’t think we have to wait to know.”
Throughout his campaign, Mamdani has labeled Israeli policy “genocide” and “apartheid,” and has repeatedly refused to denounce the slogan “Globalize the intifada,” which glorifies violence against Jews. With such dangerous rhetoric, Rowan said the Jewish community must “show up,” stay unified, and be clear about who stands with them and who does not.
“These could potentially be dark times,” he cautioned. “We need to be the ones to call him out. We need to say it. And I know that UJA, as it relates to the Jewish community, is going to do that.”
Since Hamas’ Oct. 7 massacre, Rowan has emerged as one of the most influential Jewish philanthropists pushing back against antisemitism across American institutions. He spearheaded the campaign that ultimately forced out University of Pennsylvania president Liz Magill and board chair Scott Bok over their handling of anti-Israel campus demonstrations.
During his speech, the billionaire investor also emphasized the personal risks taken by Jewish leaders who speak publicly about antisemitism, urging supporters to back them and build alliances with groups that share democratic and civic values.
“We give, we show up, we have cohesion. We now need to lead,” Rowan said to a round of applause.
Aside from the record $57 million raised, the night spotlighted honoree Julie Solomon of Ares Management; featured moving testimony from former Gaza hostages Evyatar David and Guy Gilboa-Dalal; and closed with a heartfelt tribute to the late Wesley M. LePatner, a respected Wall Street leader whose legacy still anchors the community.
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