Hi,
Just yesterday, I published a new op-ed in The Hill discussing Zohran Mamdani’s primary election victory—though not in the way most reporters have. While many understandably focus on Mamdani’s history of antisemitic rhetoric, which is deeply troubling, I decided to take a different route. My piece focuses on his radical education agenda—an issue I believe deserves far more attention.
Mamdani is unequivocally opposed to school choice, a position that will strip thousands of New York City students of the opportunity for a better education. In my article I discuss how Mamdani actually co-sponsored legislation funneling millions of taxpayer dollars into “diversity hiring” for teachers—at a time when New York City public schools already have a 42% African American teacher workforce. These are the kinds of education policies that prioritize political agendas over student success.
The article has already gone viral, receiving millions of views and thousands of comments. I’m proud of the conversation it has sparked. But unfortunately, because I’m publicly pro-Israel, the article also attracted a wave of hate—even though it has nothing to do with Israel. That’s become a pattern: no matter what I write about, my identity alone invites backlash.
I’ve developed a thick skin. I can handle the hatred. But what worries me is the fact that so many other young writers, thinkers, and advocates might not be as ready to endure it. There are thousands of students just like me—many with the same talents, ideas, and convictions—who are too afraid to speak up publicly because of the personal attacks they might face. That’s a tragedy for public discourse and for the future of free expression.
This week, Turning Point USA will fly me out to Tampa, Florida, to attend a major conference where I’ll be both covering the event as a member of the press and participating in its activities. It’s hosted by Turning Point USA and features major conservative commentators like Charlie Kirk, Tucker Carlson, Pete Hegseth, Josh Hammer, and dozens of others. The entire purpose of the conference is to encourage students to speak out—to show that it’s okay to have a different perspective, even if it’s unpopular. Especially if it’s unpopular.
I’m excited not just to attend, but to share interviews and conversations with the speakers—stay tuned for those.
This week, I also had the opportunity to appear on a podcast for a fantastic conversation (it hasn’t been released yet, but I’ll share the link once it is). It reminded me how much I love taking part in media—whether it’s television, radio, or podcasts. I’ve been fortunate to appear on shows like Fox & Friends, Newsmax, and others, and every time I do, I walk away feeling more energized.
If you host a podcast, or know someone who does, I’d love to be a guest—please feel free to reach out. I’m always open to sharing my ideas and hearing from others.
Thanks for reading—and if you haven’t already, please take a moment to check out the Hill piece. It’s one of the most important things I’ve written.
Warmly,
Gregory Lyakhov
