WASHINGTON -- Zohran Mamdani 's swift rise in New York City's mayoral race has made him into a national symbol - both as a point of pride among many Muslim Americans and a political foil for the right.

His campaign has been met by a surge in anti-Muslim language directed at the Democratic nominee, who would become the city's first Muslim mayor if elected in November.

Republican Rep. Andy Ogles of Tennessee called him "little muhammad" and urged deportation. On social media, GOP Rep. Nancy Mace of South Carolina referenced 9/11 alongside a photo of Mamdani dressed in a kurta, a loose collarless shirt common in South Asia.

Far-right activist Laura Loomer claimed without evidence that "NYC is about to see 9/11 2.0."

On many levels, Mamdani's run is a significant moment for the country an

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