Catholic League President Criticizes NYC Mayor Over Religious Freedom

Bill Donohue lambasts Mayor Zohran Mamdani for excluding traditional religious practices

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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Bill Donohue, the president of the Catholic League, has strongly criticized New York City's new mayor, Zohran Mamdani, for allegedly excluding traditional religious practices, specifically Judeo-Christian heritage, from the city's agenda. Donohue, known for his outspoken and blunt style, has compiled a list of complaints to back up his claims against the mayor.

Why it matters

Donohue's criticism of Mayor Mamdani's perceived exclusion of traditional religious practices raises concerns about the protection of religious freedom and the role of religion in the public sphere under the new administration. As a prominent Catholic figure, Donohue's views carry weight and could potentially influence the ongoing debate around the separation of church and state.

The details

In a podcast interview, Donohue accused Mayor Mamdani of excluding traditional religious practices, particularly those of Judeo-Christian heritage, from the city's agenda. Donohue claimed to have a list of complaints that prove his points, although the specific details of these complaints were not provided in the source article.

  • The interview with Donohue was published on February 8, 2026.

The players

Bill Donohue

The president of the Catholic League, known for his outspoken and blunt style in defending Catholic interests.

Zohran Mamdani

The new mayor of New York City, who Donohue has accused of excluding traditional religious practices, particularly Judeo-Christian heritage, from the city's agenda.

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The takeaway

Donohue's criticism of Mayor Mamdani's perceived exclusion of traditional religious practices highlights the ongoing tensions between religious groups and secular authorities, particularly around the issue of religious freedom and the role of religion in the public sphere. This debate is likely to continue as the new administration's policies and priorities unfold.