Brad Lander receives Soros funding for NYC mayoral campaign

Brad Lander, a candidate for mayor of New York City, has received financial support from billionaire donor George Soros. Lander, who is the city’s comptroller, accepted a $2,100 donation from Soros last June. This has raised eyebrows as Lander has been trying to position himself more towards moderate views lately. Political strategist Hank Sheinkopf commented on the connection, saying Lander aligns well with Soros’ views. He noted Lander's previous support for a boycott against Israel and his membership in the Democratic Socialists of America. Recently, however, Lander has proposed plans to increase police presence and fight gun violence, suggesting a shift from his earlier far-left policies. Soros has previously supported Lander's campaign for comptroller in 2021, with a total contribution of $5,000. Some of Soros's family members have also donated to Lander and other political candidates. Meanwhile, Lander has faced criticism for his responses to antisemitism and for divesting city pension funds from Israeli investments, although his campaign denies that political motives were behind these actions. A recent poll indicates Lander could gain up to 31% of votes in the upcoming Democratic primary, putting him in second place behind former Governor Andrew Cuomo. Critics, including Queens Councilman Robert Holden, have accused Lander of being insincere by accepting money from high-profile donors while portraying himself as a grassroots candidate. Lander’s campaign has reportedly raised around $6.7 million so far, leading among all mayoral candidates. Neither Lander nor Soros has commented on the situation.