Apollo CEO Marc Rowan Labels NYC Mayor-Elect Mamdani ‘Enemy’ of Jews, Calls for Confrontation

At UJA-Federation Dinner, Rowan Condemns Mamdani for Normalizing Antisemitism and Urges Jewish Community to Stand Firm

Apollo Global Management CEO Marc Rowan sharply criticized New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani on Monday night, calling him an “enemy” of Jews and accusing him of normalizing antisemitism. Speaking at a packed UJA-Federation Wall Street dinner, attended by nearly 2,000 people and raising $57 million for pro-Israel causes, Rowan urged the Jewish community to confront Mamdani directly.

“Someone who uses antisemitism in their campaign and normalizes antisemitism, he is our enemy,” Rowan declared. “We should make no mistake, we face challenges at home. I don’t think we have to wait to know.” Rowan chairs the UJA-Federation of New York’s board while also leading one of the world’s largest asset management firms.

Rowan criticized Mamdani, a Muslim and Democratic socialist taking office on January 1, for inflammatory statements regarding Israel and Zionism, including labeling Israeli policy toward Palestinians as “genocide” and “apartheid.” He also noted Mamdani’s failure to condemn chants such as “Globalize the intifada,” which pro-Israel groups say evoke violence against Jews.

Since Hamas’ attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023, Rowan has actively confronted rising antisemitism in politics, philanthropy, and higher education. He previously demanded the University of Pennsylvania dismiss its president and board chair over the institution’s inadequate response to pro-Palestinian protests, actions that ultimately led to their resignations.

At the dinner, Rowan emphasized the need for the Jewish community to “show up” while maintaining a “big tent,” but also to clearly identify and respond to perceived threats. “Make no mistake, these could potentially be dark times,” he said, pointing to risks from both the far left and far right. He encouraged Jewish leaders to recognize personal risks and build alliances with groups that share their values, asserting, “We have plenty of enemies.”

Rowan’s remarks contrast with other Wall Street executives who have suggested a willingness to cooperate with the incoming mayor, despite concerns among business leaders about Mamdani’s policies. The CEO did not directly address Mamdani’s campaign pledge to increase hate-crime prevention funding by 800%, which was seen as an attempt to appeal to Jewish voters.

“We give, we show up, we have cohesion. We now need to lead,” Rowan said, underscoring the urgency of proactive leadership. UJA-Federation later reiterated its stance, stating it would hold all elected officials, including Mamdani, accountable for ensuring New York remains a safe and thriving environment for Jewish life.