Mayor Zohran Mamdani Barred from Speaking at Sgt. Angel Sarah Rampersad’s Funeral

Army Sgt. Angel Sarah Rampersad, 28, was killed on July 17 when Iranian missiles struck Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan, one of three American soldiers killed in the attack. Her funeral was held at Calvary Assembly of God in Ozone Park, Queens, attended by Governor Kathy Hochul, Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and other officials.

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani arrived with a prepared eulogy on an iPad but was not called to speak. Witnesses said he looked frustrated, put the tablet away and remained silent. The family, who are supporters of former President Donald Trump, said they wanted to limit political distractions and therefore excluded the mayor, whose democratic‑socialist stance and criticism of U.S. actions against Iran have drawn controversy. City Hall did not comment on the decision.

The incident highlights the tension between the family’s desire for a non‑political ceremony and the mayor’s political profile, while honoring the fallen soldier who died in the Iranian missile attack.