Rama Duwaji, wife of NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani, is facing criticism over a trip to Spain during America 250. Republican officials say she missed an important moment for New York City. The trip coincided with America 250 celebrations, prompting critics to question her decision to miss one of the country’s major milestones.
Rama Duwaji faces backlash for skipping America 250 celebration
New York Post reported that Duwaji was seen at Newark International Airport on Monday before boarding a flight to Palma, Mallorca. She was reportedly headed to a sold-out Islamic “spiritual wellness” retreat, organized by The Women Sanctuary. The event was titled “Plants of the Quran | 6th Edition.” It includes workshops and spiritual reflection centered on plants mentioned in the Quran, such as olives, dates, pomegranates, and figs.
Her absence quickly became a political flashpoint. Queens Councilwoman Joann Ariola criticized the timing. She said, “Nothing says ‘America 250’ quite like skipping the celebration for a Mediterranean vacation.”
Staten Island Councilman Frank Morano also expressed disappointment. He argued the issue was not whether Duwaji could take a vacation. Instead, Morano stated that she missed “one of the biggest civic events our city and country will mark this year.” He added, “This was a moment to show up for the city and for the country.”
Conservative commentator Arynne Wexler added to the criticism by posting photos she said showed Duwaji at a United Airlines gate. On X, Wexler wrote that while Mamdani had urged New Yorkers to lower their air-conditioning use, “his wife Rama Duwaji was boarding a flight to party in Mallorca.”
While the celebrations were happening elsewhere, Mamdani stayed in New York as the city dealt with an intense heat wave. His office said extra cooling centers were opened and public pools stayed open longer. Residents and businesses were urged to set air conditioners to 78 degrees during peak electricity. This was announced to ease pressure on the power grid.
Meanwhile, the mayor’s office told the New York Post that Duwaji was not accompanied by the NYPD officers assigned to provide taxpayer-funded security for the couple.
Originally reported by Rishabh Shandilya on Mandatory.
