A senior appointee in New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s incoming administration resigned abruptly Thursday after old social media posts resurfaced showing antisemitic and anti-police remarks made more than a decade ago. The resignation came just days after her appointment, immediately placing Mamdani’s transition team under intensified scrutiny.

Catherine Almonte Da Costa, who had been selected to serve as director of appointments, stepped down after the Anti-Defamation League of New York and New Jersey condemned posts she allegedly made between 2011 and 2012. The now-deleted posts referenced “money hungry Jews,” “rich Jewish peeps,” and referred to a Far Rockaway train as “the Jew train,” prompting swift backlash.

In a statement, the ADL said the comments echoed classic antisemitic tropes and required immediate accountability. While acknowledging Da Costa’s personal relationships within the Jewish community, the organization said the remarks were indefensible and demanded explanation from both Da Costa and the mayor-elect.

Following the criticism, Da Costa deleted her X account and issued a public apology, saying she had spoken directly with Mamdani to express remorse. She cited her family ties, including being the mother of Jewish children, and said her past statements did not reflect who she is today.

Mamdani accepted her resignation, calling the situation a distraction from the work of forming the new administration. The controversy marks the second major issue for his transition team in less than a week, following criticism over another controversial appointment defended as part of a “second chances” philosophy.

Da Costa’s departure comes just days before Mamdani’s swearing-in as mayor. With growing concerns from Jewish leaders and city officials, the episode adds to perceptions of a turbulent start for the incoming administration and raises questions about vetting and leadership judgment.