Republican gubernatorial candidate aligns with anti-Muslim figure at high-profile event

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Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman, known for his inclusive approach to Muslim residents in Nassau County, is drawing criticism for his decision to appear alongside Tennessee Representative Andy Ogles, a leader of the national GOP’s anti-Muslim faction, at the Metropolitan Republican Club's annual gala. The event will honor Ogles with the Ronald Reagan Award for the Advancement of Individual Liberty, despite his controversial rhetoric targeting Muslims.

Blakeman, who has previously emphasized the value of Muslim residents and even appointed the first Muslim chaplain to Nassau County’s police force, is now aligning himself with Ogles, who has called for the "denaturalization" and deportation of Zohran Mamdani, New York City’s Muslim mayor. Ogles has also referred to Mamdani as “Little Muhammad” and claimed that deportations are necessary to “save the Big Apple.” Blakeman’s team declined to comment on Ogles’ past statements or the candidate’s decision to appear with him.

The Metropolitan Republican Club, which hosts the gala, is often seen as a more mainstream counterpart to the city’s far-right New York Young Republican Club. However, the event has raised concerns due to its inclusion of figures like Ogles, who has been criticized for his xenophobic and Islamophobic rhetoric. Blakeman, who won reelection in Nassau County last year despite a challenging political climate for Republicans, is now facing questions about his alignment with such extreme corners of the GOP.

Husein Yatabarry, executive director of the Muslim Community Network, expressed concern over Ogles’ remarks, noting that such rhetoric can have a significant impact on Muslim residents considering whether to engage in state politics. “It's sad to see that a lot of politicians are leaning into xenophobia and Islamaphobia,” he said, emphasizing the importance of recognizing Muslims as part of the community’s fabric.

Blakeman’s appearance with Ogles comes amid his gubernatorial campaign, which has focused on his electoral success in purple Nassau County. However, his decision to align with a figure known for anti-Muslim sentiment raises questions about his commitment to inclusivity and could have broader implications for his campaign’s appeal to diverse voters in New York.