The couple first connected on the Hinge dating app back in 2021, at a time when Mamdani was serving in the Assembly.
NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: A rumor has been making the rounds on social media alleging that New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani publicly disclosed that he and his wife, First Lady Rama Duwaji, share an open marriage. The fabricated story quickly drew a mix of astonishment and ridicule online, prompting many users to question its authenticity.
The Rumor: Zohran Mamdani Confesses to an Open Marriage with Rama Duwaji
According to the viral social media post, Mamdani supposedly addressed an open relationship following an incident where paparazzi reportedly photographed his wife in the company of three different men.
The fabricated report quoted the mayor as saying the arrangement has “been essential to our marriage’s success and my ability to serve this city without the burden of secrets.”
The post also referenced a fictional accompanying article claiming that conservative organizations lashed out over the supposed remarks, questioning the mayor’s traditional values.
Furthermore, the fake account alleged that The New York Times ran a front-page story under the headline “MAYOR’S OPEN MARRIAGE,” complete with a photograph of the couple. While some social media users fell for the hoax, others immediately recognized it as misinformation and demanded proof.
Fact Check: The Story Traces Back to a Satirical Source
In reality, the entire claim is completely unfounded. No credible news organizations have reported on any such paparazzi encounters involving Duwaji, nor has the mayor ever made statements about having an open relationship.
Additionally, claims of a front-page feature in The New York Times are entirely fictitious.
The narrative actually originated from the widely known satirical page ‘America’s Last Line Of Defense,’ which explicitly states in its profile description, “Nothing on this page is real.” Consequently, the rumor is classified entirely as internet satire created for engagement.
Inside Zohran Mamdani and Rama Duwaji’s Real Relationship
Mamdani and Duwaji’s actual journey began in 2021 when they matched on Hinge while he was still a member of the New York State Assembly.
Highlighting their modern romance during his mayoral run, Mamdani shared on The Bulwark podcast, “There is still hope in those dating apps.”
He has also stood up for his wife against online critics throughout his political career, previously stating, “Rama isn’t just my wife; she’s an incredible artist who deserves to be known on her own terms. You can critique my views, but not my family.”