A controversial legal debate is gaining new attention after conservative radio host Michael Savage suggested President Donald Trump could use a decades-old federal law to deport New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani because of his political ideology.
Speaking during an appearance on Newsmax’s “Sunday Agenda,” Savage pointed to the Communist Control Act of 1954, a Cold War-era law passed during President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s administration to combat communist influence in the United States. Savage argued that the law, which technically remains on the books, could provide legal grounds for removing Mamdani from the country.
“Mamdani can be deported under the Communist Control Act of 1954,” Savage said. “That law is still on the books from the Eisenhower era, when this country was riddled with communists.”
Savage’s remarks come as Mamdani continues to draw national attention for promoting progressive policies that have sparked fierce debate among conservatives and supporters of free-market economics.
Savage Says Mamdani’s Policies Mirror Socialism
During the interview, Savage focused on Mamdani’s proposal to establish city-owned grocery stores in New York City, arguing that the plan represents a significant expansion of government control over the economy.
According to Savage, proposals like publicly owned grocery stores move the city closer to government-run economic systems rather than the private enterprise model that has traditionally fueled American prosperity.
The longtime radio host said he believes Mamdani is advancing policies that closely resemble ideas promoted in Karl Marx’s Communist Manifesto.
“He is enacting one step after another of the Communist Manifesto,” Savage said.
Supporters of Mamdani have argued that his proposals are intended to reduce living costs and improve affordability for working families. Critics, however, contend that expanding government ownership could reduce competition, increase taxpayer costs, and discourage private investment.
The Icarus Comparison
Savage also compared Mamdani’s political rise to the ancient Greek story of Icarus, who famously flew too close to the sun with wings held together by wax.
According to Savage, the comparison reflects his belief that Mamdani’s growing popularity and ambitious agenda could ultimately collapse if voters become dissatisfied with the real-world consequences of his policies.
“Icarus believed he could fly higher than anyone else,” Savage said, arguing that political overconfidence often ends in failure.
Property Tax Proposal Draws More Criticism
Another issue discussed during the interview involved Mamdani’s proposal to release information identifying owners of second homes who could be affected by a proposed tax increase.
Savage argued that the proposal represents another example of expanding government authority over private citizens and property owners.
Savage argued that the proposed changes are being introduced gradually, adding that he believes many voters are only now beginning to recognize the direction he says the city’s leadership is taking.
The proposal has fueled additional debate over property rights, taxation, and the role of local government in regulating wealth.
Bernie Sanders Also Comes Under Fire
Savage also blamed Sen. Bernie Sanders for helping popularize democratic socialism in American politics, arguing that Sanders’ message created an environment in which politicians like Mamdani could gain broader public support.
Savage argued that Sen. Bernie Sanders is largely responsible for bringing democratic socialism into the political mainstream. According to Savage, the movement has encouraged the rise of politicians with similar ideological views, and he contended that democratic socialism ultimately serves as a pathway to communism.
The comments reflect a broader disagreement within American politics over the meaning of democratic socialism. Supporters argue the philosophy promotes expanded public services while maintaining democratic institutions, while critics believe it opens the door to greater government control over the economy.
Could the Communist Control Act Actually Be Used?
Savage closed the interview by urging federal officials to take action regarding Mamdani, saying he believes the mayor’s political agenda threatens the nation’s future.
Savage acknowledged that the ACLU would strongly oppose his position, but said he believes Mamdani should be deported. He argued that the mayor represents a serious threat not only to New York City but to the future of the United States.
While the Communist Control Act of 1954 remains part of federal law, its practical legal effect has long been questioned by constitutional scholars. Over the decades, portions of the law have been challenged in court, and many legal experts argue that attempts to use it today would likely face significant constitutional hurdles involving free speech, due process, and First Amendment protections.
At this time, there is no indication that the Trump administration has announced any plan to use the Communist Control Act against Mamdani or any other public official. Nevertheless, Savage’s comments have reignited discussion among conservatives over socialism, immigration law, national security, and whether older federal statutes could play a role in future policy debates.
As the political battle over New York City’s direction continues, the debate surrounding Mamdani’s agenda—and the legal theories being discussed by his critics—is likely to remain a topic of national conversation in the months ahead.