1. United States
2. N.Y.
3. Letter

The attempt to deport a democratic candidate for New York City mayor based solely on his religion and political views is a blatant violation of constitutional rights and democratic principles. Representative Ogles' call to denaturalize and deport Zohran Mamdani, utilizing inflammatory rhetoric questioning his loyalty and American identity, promotes dangerous discrimination and undermines our nation's foundational values. Officials at all levels of government have a duty to forcefully condemn and block this unacceptable attack on the pillars of our free society. Enabling the deportation of lawful candidates for elected office due to their race, faith or ideology would set a perilous precedent, eroding equal rights and protections for all Americans. We must uphold the democratic process and constitutional guarantees that have strengthened our diverse Republic for over two centuries. Failure to do so jeopardizes the very fabric of our democratic institutions.