U.S. Congressman Brandon Gill sparked controversy after mocking New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani for eating rice with his hands, a common cultural practice. In a reposted video, Gill commented, “Civilized people in America don’t eat like this. If you refuse to adopt Western customs, go back to the Third World.” The remark ignited widespread criticism online, with many condemning it as racist.
Civilized people in America don’t eat like this.
— Congressman Brandon Gill (@RepBrandonGill) June 30, 2025
If you refuse to adopt Western customs, go back to the Third World. https://t.co/TYQkcr0nFE
Criticism Mounts Against Congressman Brandon Gill
Critics swiftly pointed out the irony of Gill’s comments, highlighting his Indian-origin wife, Danielle D’Souza Gill, and her father, conservative commentator Dinesh D’Souza, who was born in India. Photos resurfaced showing Gill’s in-laws eating with their hands at a restaurant, prompting viral backlash. One post humorously quipped, “If you’re going to be racist against Indians, don’t go marrying one.”
Brandon Gill’s father-in-law Dinesh D’Souza was born and raised in India and has definitely eaten with his hands.
— Mehdi Hasan (@mehdirhasan) June 30, 2025
Is he going to ask his father-in-law to leave the US too? https://t.co/qYPjE5hrQO pic.twitter.com/LrWk1Pm2pW
Online Backlash Highlights Hypocrisy
Social media users mocked Gill’s discomfort with hand-eating, questioning his approach to foods like pizza, tacos, and fried chicken, which are traditionally eaten without utensils. The incident drew further scrutiny as critics questioned the inconsistency in Gill’s views.
Danielle D’Souza Gill Defends Husband Amidst Controversy
In response to the growing criticism, Danielle D’Souza Gill publicly defended her husband’s comments, emphasizing her American upbringing and Christian background. She clarified, “I did not grow up eating rice with my hands and have always used a fork. I was born in America. I’m a Christian MAGA patriot. My father’s extended family lives in India, and they also use forks.”
Meanwhile here’s a pic of Brandon Gill’s father-in-law about to dig into Indian food with roti.
— junglegsus (Mustafa) (@Junglegsus) June 30, 2025
One thing’s for sure, his FIL is uncivilized af. pic.twitter.com/vGgqzWo2HJ
Zohran Mamdani’s Political Journey and Response
Zohran Mamdani, son of Indian-American filmmaker Mira Nair and a self-described socialist, recently defeated former governor Andrew Cuomo in the Democratic mayoral primary. His candidacy, focused on progressive values, aims to make history as New York City’s first Muslim mayor.
