Key Insights from the NYC Mayoral Debate: Mamdani vs. Cuomo

Tue Oct 21 2025 17:07:20 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

A recap of the recent NYC mayoral debate featuring candidates Zohran Mamdani, Andrew Cuomo, and Curtis Sliwa, focusing on critical issues such as affordability, Trump's influence, and past controversies.

During a heated debate at Rockefeller Center, candidates Zohran Mamdani and Andrew Cuomo clashed on issues like housing, affordability, and international policy, while Curtis Sliwa highlighted public safety concerns. As the political stakes rise ahead of early voting, candidates navigated personal controversies and policy differences that may define the future of New York City.

The three leading candidates for New York City mayor took the stage at Rockefeller Center in Manhattan on Thursday to make a case to lead America's biggest city.

They tangled over housing, Israel and Gaza, and President Donald Trump, with frontrunner Zohran Mamdani pressing main competitor Andrew Cuomo during the heated two-hour debate.

With early voting set to begin next week, neither dominated the evening - though both declared victory afterwards. The most recent polling suggests Mamdani has widened his lead to 46%, while Cuomo stands at 33%.

The outcome could have political implications beyond the Empire State as Trump looms large, and whoever wins will likely face pressure from Washington in some form.

The Democratic Party nationally is likely watching to see if America’s biggest Democratic stronghold chooses an establishment, centrist figure in Cuomo - who is running as an independent - or the progressive Mamdani.

Republicans also will watch to see if their candidate, Curtis Sliwa, continues to make inroads with his public safety platform.

Here are five big takeaways from the night.

1. Mamdani pressed on views on Palestinians

Mamdani's past statements on Israel and Palestinians came up several times during the night in questions from moderators and opponents' criticisms.

The candidate has stressed his support for Palestinians and statehood, and has fiercely criticised Israel's military operation in Gaza.

He was also criticized by Cuomo for declining to condemn the phrase 'globalise the intifada', which some see as antisemitic. In response, Mamdani clarified, stating, 'the occupation is a reference to international law and the violation of it.'

2. The fourth man: Donald Trump

Although there were three candidates at tonight's debate, Donald Trump was a recurring figure throughout the discussions.

With implications for how New York City would have to deal with federal policies on issues like immigration and infrastructure, both Cuomo and Mamdani made their positions against Trump clear, with Sliwa noting the need to engage constructively regardless of differing views.

3. Affordability front and centre

The issues of affordability weighed heavily on the candidates, as they addressed New Yorkers' concerns regarding high living costs, particularly rent and groceries. Each candidate proposed distinct solutions to these pressing issues, revealing differing views on housing policy.

4. Cuomo's controversies still loom

Cuomo tried to leverage his extensive political experience but faced scrutiny over his past controversies, including allegations of sexual harassment and mismanagement during the Covid-19 pandemic.

5. Curtis Sliwa makes his mark

Sliwa stood out as the only Republican in the debate, capitalizing on the emphasis on public safety to connect with voters, showcasing his experience from his founding of the Guardian Angels.