New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani appeared in a video celebrating Hanukkah with Jewish actor Mandy Patinkin and his family. The video, posted on social media, showed Mamdani helping prepare a traditional meal and joining in the Hanukkah prayer and menorah lighting. Patinkin praised Mamdani for his commitment to equity and inclusion, calling him a 'human-itician' and expressing hope for his positive influence on the city and beyond.

The video comes as Mamdani faces scrutiny over antisemitism scandals involving his staff. Catherine Almonte Da Costa, his recently appointed director of appointments, resigned after old social media posts with antisemitic remarks resurfaced. Mamdani has also faced criticism for his stance on controversial phrases related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.