Galina Guterman has lived through history’s darkest chapters. As a child, she fled to Siberia when the Nazis invaded Russia. Decades later, she escaped Soviet antisemitism, coming to America to begin again.
Now, at 92, she has voted for the first time.
“I’ve never voted before. I’m voting because I believe that Mamdani is an antisemite with dangerous fiscal policies,” she told The New York Post through a Russian interpreter after casting her ballot in The Bronx.
— The New York Post, Nov 2 2025
She said she could not stay silent as Democratic Socialist candidate Zohran Mamdani gained ground. Mamdani has voiced support for the boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) movement against Israel and once used the phrase “globalize the intifada” — a slogan many understand as a call for violence against Jews.
“When I listen to what he says about ‘globalize the intifada,’ that is not kind-hearted,” Guterman said. “Cuomo is trustworthy, real, and honest. He is someone I trust.”
Guterman’s words reach beyond politics. They echo the lifelong lesson of a survivor who knows what happens when hatred is ignored.
This week, former New York governor Andrew Cuomo also spoke words that mattered. After the remains of 21-year-old Omer Neutra, a New Yorker murdered by Hamas on October 7, 2023, were finally returned to Israel after 758 days, Cuomo shared a message of sorrow and resolve:
“For so long the Neutras lived in the impossible,” he wrote. “They fought with everything they had for what no parent should ever have to fight for. Omer’s return allows his family to bury him with the dignity he deserves. May his memory be a blessing.”
Two New Yorkers. Two moments of moral clarity. One elderly survivor who refused to let antisemitism rise unchallenged. One leader who reminded the world that Israel’s pain is personal.
And yet, some voices in New York still say “anybody but Cuomo.” Unfortunately, that kind of thinking leaves the door open for candidates like Mamdani — men who excuse hatred and normalize antisemitism under the banner of politics. This election is not about personality. It is about moral vision. Pick wisely, New York.
“Seek good, not evil, that you may live. Then the Lord God Almighty will be with you.” (Amos 5:14, NIV)
Today’s Prayer
Lord, bless Galina Guterman for her courage and every survivor who still chooses hope. Comfort the family of Omer Neutra and all who mourn their sons and daughters. Protect the people of Israel and the Jewish community in New York from those who twist truth into hate. Guide the New York City mayoral election with Your wisdom. Give voters discernment, raise up leaders who reject antisemitism, and establish peace and justice in this city. Let righteousness rise in this generation as boldly as it did in hers. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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