Newly inaugurated New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani drew sharp backlash after promoting “collectivism” over “rugged individualism” in his inaugural address.

Conservative leaders nationwide criticized the remarks, warning that collectivist ideology leads to coercion, loss of individual rights, and historical mass death.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and several Republican lawmakers linked Mamdani’s comments to communism, with some labeling him dangerous or Marxist.

Mamdani has repeatedly rejected being called a communist, including in a prior appearance on The View, Fox News has reported.

The controversy highlights growing ideological tensions surrounding Mamdani’s leadership and political identity.