NEW YORK (VINnews) — U.S. Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., sharply criticized New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani on Wednesday, accusing him of permitting violence against Jews in the city and demanding accountability from Democratic leaders.

In a statement posted on social media, Scott said Mamdani’s leadership has contributed to an environment where antisemitic attacks have proliferated.

“Mayor Mamdani allowing violence against Jews in his city. I guess we can’t be surprised. It’s disgusting,” Scott wrote. “It’s time for ACCOUNTABILITY. Will Sen Schumer stand up for the Jewish community in NY and condemn this?”

The remarks come amid reports of a significant rise in antisemitic hate crimes in New York City. Data from the NYPD showed a 182% surge in such incidents during Mamdani’s first month in office in January 2026 compared with the previous year, even as overall violent crime declined.

Mamdani, who took office on Jan. 1, 2026, as the city’s first Muslim and Asian American mayor, has publicly stated his commitment to combating antisemitism and hate crimes. He has called antisemitism a “crisis” and proposed initiatives like a Department of Community Safety focused on anti-hate programs.

Scott’s comments echo broader concerns from some Jewish community leaders and officials about the handling of rising antisemitism under the new administration, which has faced scrutiny over its response to protests and incidents targeting Jews.

Neither Mamdani’s office nor Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer’s office immediately responded to requests for comment.

Scott, a vocal supporter of Israel and critic of progressive policies in blue cities, has repeatedly targeted Mamdani’s socialist-leaning agenda in recent months. The Florida senator has warned that Mamdani’s approach risks driving away businesses and exacerbating urban challenges in New York.