Sound the alarm: Jamaal Bowman, the disgraced former congressman known for pulling a fire alarm to delay a key vote, is in the running to become New York City’s next schools chancellor. If Zohran Mamdani secures the mayoral seat, don’t be surprised if Bowman’s name surfaces among the top contenders to lead the nation’s largest public school system.
Sources close to the United Federation of Teachers indicate that Bowman, a former middle school principal, is already being considered for this significant role. His past antics have not deterred those who remain firmly aligned with the radical left.
Having been ousted from Congress for his extreme stances and electoral missteps, Bowman is now focusing his efforts on getting Mamdani elected. When asked about his ambitions, he claims to be “exceptional in compartmentalizing,” as if that justifies his political aspirations.
Bowman has previously endorsed Mamdani, one of the few black leaders to do so. His commitment to the Mamdani campaign raises eyebrows given his controversial history, including accusations of antisemitism that led to significant backlash from both sides of the aisle.
Voters rejected Bowman in the Democratic primary last year, largely due to his outlandish remarks regarding Israel and an array of misjudged actions that alienated constituents. His past includes a guilty plea for a misdemeanor stemming from his fire alarm stunt—a disgraceful distraction in an attempt to avoid a government shutdown. Censure followed, a fitting punishment for his reckless behavior.
Community leaders have rightfully condemned any consideration of Bowman for a key educational position. Rabbi Joseph Potasnik pointedly stated that the appointment of an individual with a history of hateful rhetoric against the Jewish community would be unacceptable.
Moreover, Bowman’s views on education are controversial at best. He has labeled standardized testing as “modern-day slavery,” a divisive assertion reflecting his broader ideology rather than sound educational policy.
Mamdani, who is no stranger to radical positions himself, will face challenges in his mayoral ambitions. Despite a recent victory in a crowded primary, he still has to contend with a range of opponents in the general election. His allegiance with Bowman could prove to be a dangerous gamble that placates the far-left but alienates a broader electorate.
As this political saga unfolds, one thing is clear: the stakes for New York City education are alarmingly high. Would you trust a former congressman who endorsed tragically misguided ideologies to lead our schools? It’s time for New Yorkers to ask the tough questions. The future of our children depends on it.
