New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani’s campaign has been linked to over $13,000 in illegal foreign donations, according to records reviewed by the NYC Campaign Finance Board. The investigation revealed that 170 of the nearly 54,000 contributions to Mamdani’s campaign originated from individuals outside the United States. One such donation came from Mamdani’s mother-in-law, who resides in Dubai.

Despite promising to return all illegal foreign donations, the campaign has yet to refund over $7,190 from 88 unresolved contributions. The funds were reportedly accepted by Mamdani’s team despite federal and state laws prohibiting non-citizens or legal residents from contributing to political campaigns. Campaign officials stated they would comply with regulations but did not explain why the donations remained unreturned.

Republican mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa criticized the situation, calling it “very problematic” and warning that foreign interference in elections could undermine democratic processes. Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon also highlighted the severity of the allegations, raising questions about potential legal consequences for Mamdani. The campaign has so far returned only $5,608, including a contribution from Mamdani’s new bride’s mother.

With less than a month until election day, the controversy surrounding foreign donations continues to draw scrutiny.