The Times of London, a prestigious British newspaper owned by Rupert Murdoch, has retracted an article falsely attributed to former New York mayor Bill de Blasio, following revelations that the publication was deceived by an impersonator. The article, published on Tuesday, purported to feature de Blasio criticizing Zohran Mamdani, the 33-year-old Democratic nominee and frontrunner in the New York mayoral election. The fabricated quotes included de Blasio allegedly questioning the feasibility of Mamdani’s policy proposals. The story gained traction when a spokesperson for Mamdani’s rival, Andrew Cuomo, shared it on social media. However, de Blasio swiftly denounced the article on X, stating it was ‘entirely false and fabricated.’ He emphasized that he had never spoken to the reporter or made such statements, calling the incident an ‘absolute violation of journalistic ethics.’ The Times issued an apology to de Blasio and removed the article, acknowledging that their reporter had been misled by an individual falsely claiming to be the former mayor. De Blasio reaffirmed his support for Mamdani, praising his vision as ‘necessary and achievable.’ Mamdani’s platform, which includes abolishing bus fares, freezing rent on rent-stabilized apartments, and providing universal childcare, has resonated with New Yorkers, giving him a significant lead over Cuomo in polls. Despite his popularity, Mamdani has faced criticism from US political figures and media outlets, including the Murdoch-owned New York Post, due to his stance on Israel. Mamdani has previously lauded de Blasio as the best mayor of his lifetime.