As the race for the New York City Council seat for District 39 approaches, a diverse field of candidates has emerged to represent the Brooklyn district. Among them, incumbent Shahana Hanif, newcomer Maya Kornberg, and second time challenger Nickie Kane are competing for voters’ support. Kane was kicked off the ballot in 2023 due to a technical error which she discusses on her official website.
The race has garnered significant attention due to the candidates’ differing views on Israel, Zionism, and broader political issues, particularly the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Here’s a breakdown of each candidate’s stance on these topics, along with their professional backgrounds and political platforms.
Shahana Hanif: Progressive Politics and Anti-Zionism
Shahana Hanif, the incumbent representing District 39, has been a vocal progressive advocate, often speaking out on issues such as social justice, affordable housing, and human rights. Her views on Israel have sparked considerable controversy and divided opinions, particularly among Jewish voters in her district. Hanif has openly criticized Israel’s treatment of Palestinians, referring to it as apartheid and calling for an end to U.S. military aid to the Israeli government.
One of her most cited remarks on the subject came in 2021, when she said:
“Zionism is an oppressive ideology. It has perpetuated an ongoing occupation that violates international law. We must acknowledge that the state of Israel was built on land that was taken from the Palestinian people, and we must hold Israel accountable for its human rights violations.” (City & State New York)
In 2022, Hanif expanded on this stance during an interview with The Jewish Insider:
“As long as Israel continues to operate as an apartheid state, there can be no peace in the region. The U.S. government must stop providing weapons to the Israeli state, which uses these weapons to oppress Palestinians.” (Jewish Insider)
Her comments have drawn criticism from pro-Israel activists, who argue that Hanif’s position on Zionism veers into antisemitism. Hanif has repeatedly defended her comments, clarifying that her criticism is aimed at the Israeli government, not Jewish people:
“My critique is of the Israeli government’s actions, not of Jewish people themselves. I support the rights of Palestinians to self-determination, and I stand for justice.” (NY Times)
Hanif’s anti-Zionist rhetoric has raised concerns in Jewish communities, and the debate over whether her views cross into antisemitism remains a point of contention.
Recent Allegations Against Councilwoman Hanif
In March 2025, The New York Post reported allegations that Councilwoman Hanif directed over $149,000 in taxpayer funds to organizations associated with her husband, Abdullah Younus. The report suggests that funding amounts varied based on Younus’s involvement with these organizations. Neither Hanif nor the organizations reportedly disclosed potential conflicts of interest to the City Council.
Maya Kornberg: Approach to Zionism and Israel
Maya Kornberg, a political newcomer with deep roots in community activism, has garnered significant attention for her stance on Israel and Zionism, issues that have sparked heated debate in recent years. Kornberg, a progressive Democrat, has been vocal about her views, positioning herself as a strong advocate for human rights while navigating the complexities of international relations.
A significant aspect of Kornberg’s campaign stems from concerns within the Jewish community regarding Hanif’s stance on Israel. Hanif has faced criticism for her vocal criticism of Israel, including her characterization of the conflict as a “genocide.” December 5, 2025 algemeiner.com This rhetoric has reportedly unsettled many Jewish constituents in the district, prompting Kornberg to challenge Hanif’s position.
Kornberg has stated, “As someone who firmly believes in Israel’s right to exist, I will always stand with the Jewish community in New York and globally. My support for Israel is a reflection of my commitment to ensuring that Jewish people everywhere have the right to live in peace and security.”
According to City and State (City and State article), Kornberg’s advocacy for Zionism and her strong pro-Israel stance align her with those who view Israel’s security as a critical issue. “Her unwavering support for Israel has earned her praise from Jewish advocacy groups who see her as a dependable ally in the Council.”
Kornberg’s pro-Zionist position also includes the idea that the U.S.-Israel relationship should be reinforced, ensuring that New York City continues to foster strong ties with Israel and its allies. This position is particularly important for those who believe in maintaining international partnerships based on shared democratic values. Kornberg further expressed, “The alliance between the United States and Israel is not just a matter of diplomacy but a matter of shared democratic principles. As a member of the City Council, I will advocate for policies that preserve this vital relationship.”
Kornberg’s stance on Zionism—both the idea of a Jewish homeland in Israel and the policies of the Israeli government—has become a focal point in her campaign. As the race heats up, Kornberg’s views on Zionism will likely continue to influence conversations both within District 39 and beyond. Whether or not her approach resonates with voters in her district will shape the future of her political career and the direction of progressive politics in New York City.
Kornberg’s more moderate approach, advocating for a two-state solution and a peaceful resolution to the Israel-Palestine conflict, appeals to those who want a balanced stance. Her nuanced position seeks to reconcile the needs and rights of both Israelis and Palestinians.
Kornberg’s campaign has gained financial backing from prominent figures, including billionaires Leonard Stern, Alice Tisch, and Russian oligarch Len Blavatnik. March 19,2024 wikipedia.org This support underscores the significance of her challenge to Hanif, highlighting the deep divisions within the district over issues related to Israel and broader political representation.
Nickie Kane: Background and Professional Experience
Nickie Kane brings a wealth of experience in human resources, community organizing, and local education. With a career spanning various sectors, Kane has worked at North Fork Bank (now Capital One), Disney ABC Television Studios, City College of New York, and in IT at Queensborough Community College. Her background in human resources and IT provides her with a unique skill set that she plans to leverage in her campaign to represent District 39.
Kane’s focus, however, has been primarily on local issues like affordable housing, job creation, and public safety. In a statement on her website, Kane emphasized:
“I’m not running to solve international conflicts. I’m running to solve the challenges facing our neighborhood. District 39 needs a representative who is focused on the daily needs of its residents, from affordable housing to job opportunities.” (Nickie Kane Official Website)
Though she has not publicly made Israel or Zionism a central focus of her campaign, Kane’s professional experience in human resources and IT positions her to address issues like economic development, public services, and educational access in her district. Kane’s supporters appreciate her pragmatic approach to governance and local community engagement. Kane personally collected each signature on her designating petition when she ran in 2023 and now, meeting with each constituent and answering their questions and concerns.
The Debate Over Israel and Zionism in District 39
As the candidates’ views on Israel and Zionism come to the forefront, the race for District 39 has become a battleground for competing ideologies. Hanif’s stance, which includes strong criticisms of Zionism and Israeli policies, has led to polarized reactions. Some argue that her position represents a genuine commitment to human rights, while others believe it crosses the line into antisemitism.
For many voters in District 39, the question remains: which candidate best represents their values on these complex issues?
The race for District 39 is about more than just local issues. It’s also about the broader political and ideological choices that shape the future of international relations, human rights, and peace. Shahana Hanif, with her outspoken criticism of Zionism and Israel’s policies, offers a progressive, activist-oriented perspective. Maya Kornberg, with her balanced approach to Zionism and a commitment to a two-state solution, seeks to promote diplomacy and coexistence. Meanwhile, Nickie Kane offers a more localized platform, focusing on community needs and practical solutions to issues like affordable housing and job creation.
Voters in District 39 will need to decide which candidate aligns most closely with their values as Election Day draws near.
