Debra Messing, an Emmy-winning actress known for her lead role in Will & Grace , is at the center of online uproar after sharing a meme on Instagram that appeared to label New York City mayoral candidate, and now winner, Zohran Mamdani a "jihadist."

According to the Cambridge Dictionary , a "jihadist" is a term "used to refer to a Muslim extremist."

Newsweek reached out to Messing and Mamdani's representatives via email for comment on Wednesday.

Why It Matters

The post—which was shared on Election Day—highlights the increasing role celebrities play in shaping political narratives. The resulting backlash came at a pivotal point in New York City's heated mayoral race, which ultimately saw Mamdani emerge victorious .

What To Know

On Tuesday, Messing, 57, reposted an image from

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