Rama Duwaji, the wife of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, has come under fire from local officials after traveling to Mallorca, Spain, for an Islamic spiritual wellness retreat during the nation's 250th anniversary celebrations.
Duwaji was seen at Newark International Airport on June 29, 2026, boarding a flight to Palma to participate as an "artist in residence" and host for a sold-out program organized by The Women Sanctuary, according to the New York Post.
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The trip sparked immediate political backlash from Republican lawmakers who questioned the timing of her overseas travel while her husband remained in New York managing a severe heat wave and participating in official civic events.
Political Reactions
"Nothing says 'America 250' quite like skipping the celebration for a Mediterranean vacation, but I am not surprised because she has made her hatred for America very evident," said Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Queens).
Councilman Frank Morano (R-Staten Island) added, "It's disappointing that the First Lady chose to be overseas instead of taking part in one of the biggest civic events our city and country will mark this year."
Conservative commentator Arynne Wexler publicly criticized the departure on social media, noting that residents were asked to conserve energy during the heat wave.
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"Funny how when @ZohranKMamdani was telling New Yorkers to lower their AC his wife Rama Duwaji was boarding a flight to party in Mallorca," Wexler posted.
The event, titled "Plants Of The Quran | 6th Edition," focuses on botanical workshops and spiritual reflection centered around flora mentioned in Islamic texts.
Duwaji is also scheduled to appear in Corsica, France, following the retreat.
The mayor's office clarified that Duwaji traveled without an NYPD security detail.
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The Mayor's Office did not immediately provide further comment to Fox News Digital regarding the public backlash.
