Top Mamdani Appointee Resigns A

Abrupt Resignation

A senior appointee in New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s incoming administration resigned Thursday after old social media posts resurfaced.

The controversy erupted just days after her appointment, drawing scrutiny to the transition team.

Backlash Over Posts=

Catherine Almonte Da Costa, named director of appointments, stepped down after the

ADL condemned posts from 2011–2012 referencing “money hungry Jews,” “rich Jewish peeps,” and calling a Far Rockaway train “the Jew train.”

The ADL said the remarks echoed antisemitic tropes and demanded accountability.

Apology and Acceptance

Da Costa deleted her X account and apologized, saying she spoke with

Mamdani to express remorse and that her past statements do not reflect who she is today.

Wider Impact

Mamdani accepted the resignation, calling it a distraction as his team forms, adding to concerns about vetting ahead of his swearing-in.