In a surprising development, Catherine Almonte Da Costa, recently tapped to join Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s incoming team, has stepped down after antisemitic posts from 2011-2012 resurfaced. The posts, which the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) highlighted, contain classic antisemitic tropes. Da Costa issued a statement expressing deep regret and remorse. Her resignation was accepted by Mamdani’s office on Thursday.
Appointment to the Office of Appointments
Da Costa was chosen earlier this week to lead Mamdani’s Office of Appointments, a position responsible for talent recruitment strategy. The role will oversee the selection of key personnel for the new administration. She has a history of public service, having worked in Mamdani’s office more than a decade ago. Her recent career includes positions at a private communications firm and at Sotheby’s.
Posts from 2011-2012 Resurface
The controversial posts date back to 2011 and 2012, a period when Da Costa was not yet part of the mayoral office. They were recently shared online by the ADL, bringing them back into public scrutiny. The content has been described by the organization as echoing classic antisemitic tropes. The resurfacing of these tweets has prompted a swift response from both Da Costa and Mamdani.
ADL Highlights Antisemitic Tropes
The ADL declined to comment after Da Costa’s resignation. The Jewish advocacy group had previously shared three tweets from her account. In its statement, the ADL said the tweets “echo classic antisemitic tropes and otherwise demean Jewish people.” The organization has been active in monitoring personnel for the mayor-elect’s administration.
Da Costa Issues Apology
In her public apology, Da Costa said, “These statements are not indicative of who I am. As the mother of Jewish children, I feel a profound sense of sadness and remorse at the harm these words have caused.” She added that she expressed “deep regret” for the posts. Da Costa emphasized that her past remarks do not reflect her current values. She formally tendered her resignation to the mayor-elect’s office.
Resignation Accepted
Mamdani’s spokesperson confirmed that the resignation had been accepted. In a statement, Mamdani said, “Catherine expressed her deep remorse over her past statements and tendered her resignation, and I accepted.” The mayor-elect’s office noted that the decision was made promptly after the apology. The resignation underscores the administration’s stance on antisemitism.
Mamdani Responds
Mamdani, who will take office next month, has faced intense scrutiny over his criticism of Israel’s military actions in Gaza. During his campaign, he drew criticism for refusing to condemn the phrase “globalize the intifada.” He has since said he discourages people from using that phrase. The controversy highlights the broader debate over his positions on Israel.
Da Costa’s Career Background
Da Costa’s career history includes a decade of service in Mamdani’s office, where she helped with appointment processes. She later worked at a private communications firm, gaining experience in media relations. Her most recent role was at Sotheby’s, a prestigious auction house. These positions demonstrate her background in public and private sector communications.
Role of the Office of Appointments
The Office of Appointments, which Da Costa was set to lead, plays a critical role in shaping the new administration’s workforce. Her responsibilities would have included developing talent recruitment strategies. The office is integral to ensuring the mayor-elect’s team aligns with his policy goals. The resignation creates a vacancy that will need to be filled before the administration’s launch.
ADL’s Monitoring Tool
Following Mamdani’s election, the ADL announced a new tool designed to track and monitor policies and personnel. The tool aims to provide transparency regarding the mayor-elect’s hires. It reflects the organization’s ongoing efforts to hold public officials accountable. The resignation of Da Costa is one of the first instances where the tool’s focus has come to the forefront.
Mamdani’s Criticism of Israel
Mamdani’s criticism of Israel has been a central theme of his campaign. He has positioned himself as a vocal opponent of the country’s military actions. Critics argue that his rhetoric borders on antisemitism. The administration’s handling of personnel controversies will be closely watched by both supporters and detractors.
Controversy Over “Globalize the Intifada”
The phrase “globalize the intifada” was a focal point of debate during the campaign. Mamdani’s refusal to condemn it drew backlash from Jewish advocacy groups. He later clarified that he discourages its use. The incident has fueled discussions about the boundaries of political speech.
Mamdani’s Recent Stance on the Phrase
In recent statements, Mamdani has emphasized his discouragement of the phrase. He has reiterated that he does not support the use of language that could be perceived as antisemitic. The mayor-elect’s office has reiterated its commitment to diversity and inclusion. These remarks aim to address concerns raised by the ADL and other organizations.
Pressure to Show No Antisemitism
The administration faces pressure to demonstrate that opposition to Israel’s policies does not equate to antisemitism. The resignation of Da Costa highlights the sensitivity surrounding personnel appointments. Stakeholders are monitoring how the mayor-elect will navigate these complex issues. The outcome will influence public perception of the new administration.
Summary of the Situation
The resignation of Catherine Almonte Da Costa, after the resurfacing of antisemitic posts, underscores the challenges facing Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s incoming team. The incident brings into focus the scrutiny of past statements by public officials. It also reflects the broader debate over antisemitism and policy positions related to Israel. The situation remains a key point of discussion as the administration prepares to assume office.
Key Takeaways
- Da Costa resigned after antisemitic posts from 2011-2012 resurfaced.
- Mamdani accepted the resignation and emphasized remorse.
- The incident highlights ongoing scrutiny of personnel and antisemitism concerns in the new administration.
Final Thoughts
The resignation of Catherine Almonte Da Costa has brought immediate attention to the mayor-elect’s staffing choices. It also reinforces the importance of vetting candidates for their past statements. As Zohran Mamdani prepares to take office, the administration will need to address these concerns to maintain public trust.
