By Amanda Castro and Dan Gooding
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In the first general election debate for New York City mayor, Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani, independent candidate Andrew M. Cuomo, and Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa laid out sharply contrasting visions for the city’s future, clashing over affordability, public safety, and political legacy.
What to Know:
- Major Nominees: Mamdani (Democrat), Cuomo (Independent), Sliwa (Republican)
- Key Proposals: Mamdani pitched a rent freeze, free buses, and universal child care
- Public Safety Divide: Mamdani backs a separate mental health response agency; Cuomo and Sliwa favor expanding the NYPD
- Political Attacks: Cuomo criticized Mamdani’s inexperience and ideology; Mamdani pointed to Cuomo’s resignation scandal
- Debate Significance: First head-to-head of the general election, with high stakes for city leadership
- The second and final New York City mayoral debate will take place on October 22.
- Early voting begins Saturday, October 25, with Election Day set for Tuesday, November 4.
This live blog is now closed.
Oct 16, 2025 at 09:09 PM EDT
Who won tonight’s NYC mayoral debate? What to know
In the first general election debate for New York City mayor, Andrew Cuomo and Curtis Sliwa launched sharp attacks on Democratic front-runner Zohran Mamdani, aiming to slow his momentum in a race reshaped by scandal and shifting alliances.
Cuomo, running as an independent, framed Mamdani as inexperienced and unfit to manage the city’s complex bureaucracy. Mamdani countered by questioning Cuomo’s integrity, invoking the former governor’s pandemic decisions and sexual misconduct allegations.
Sliwa, the Republican nominee, positioned himself as the outsider, hoping to capitalize on a split Democratic vote. He criticized both opponents while defending his own record and warning against antagonizing President Donald Trump, who loomed large throughout the debate.
Mamdani faced renewed scrutiny over past comments on Israel and Gaza, with Cuomo and Sliwa challenging his stance on antisemitism. Mamdani reaffirmed his support for peace and accused Cuomo of ignoring Muslim communities.
Tune in for the next debate on October 22, which will take place ahead of early voting that Saturday.
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Oct 16, 2025 at 09:04 PM EDT
Debate closes on light note with personal questions
The final moments of Thursday’s mayoral debate took a lighter turn when candidates were asked about cannabis use.
Mamdani, smiling, said he has bought products from New York’s legal dispensaries.
Cuomo replied that he had not. Sliwa sidestepped the question slightly, sharing instead that he used medical marijuana after surviving multiple gunshot wounds.
Oct 16, 2025 at 08:57 PM EDT
Mental health response plans divide candidates in debate
Mamdani defended his proposal to divert mental health crisis calls away from police, saying 911 operators could be trained to decide when to dispatch officers versus mental health teams. He clarified that police would still respond in cases involving violence.
Sliwa dismissed the plan as “another fantasy,” while Cuomo called it theoretical and offered a middle ground: pairing mental health professionals with police officers on such calls. Public safety officials have noted that Mamdani’s approach would require significant training for 911 dispatchers to make those critical decisions.
Oct 16, 2025 at 08:54 PM EDT
Elevator pitch exercise on the debate stage
During Thursday’s debate, candidates were asked to make direct appeals to chief executives—a nod to the mayor’s role in attracting jobs to New York City. Mamdani, often viewed warily by business leaders, has been quietly working to ease concerns about his progressive platform, with mixed success.
The conversation touched on Amazon’s failed HQ2 deal and the city’s struggle to land major employers since Facebook’s expansion. Mamdani, now supportive of a new development in the same area, signaled openness to private-sector partnerships, underscoring the balancing act required to bring 1,000 jobs to neighborhoods like Astoria.
Oct 16, 2025 at 08:52 PM EDT
Mamdani won’t denounce killing all Jews, Cuomo goes for debate jugular
New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani was confronted about the phrase “globalize the intifada” during his debate against former Governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa on Thursday.
The phrase, which pro-Palestinian activists have used, has become a sticking point between Mamdani, the Democratic nominee to lead the nation’s most populous city, and parts of its Jewish community. Pro-Palestinian activists view it as a call for global support of Palestinian resistance against Israel, but many Jewish people view the saying as antisemitic and a call for violence.
Mamdani, who would be New York’s first Muslim mayor, has faced criticism from Democrats and Republicans alike over his views on the conflict between Israel and Hamas. Mamdani has been a prominent critic of the Israeli government, and during the Democratic primary declined to condemn the use of “globalize the intifada,” drawing accusations of antisemitism, though he has since adjusted his messaging on the phrase.
Read the full story by Anna Commander on Newsweek.
Oct 16, 2025 at 08:46 PM EDT
Sliwa vows crackdown on prostitution networks, targets landlords
Sliwa pledged aggressive enforcement against prostitution rings if elected mayor, drawing on his experience in Times Square, Chelsea, and Hell’s Kitchen during the 1980s and ’90s.
He emphasized that women involved are victims, and said the focus should be on prosecuting madams, pimps, and absentee landlords who knowingly rent out properties for illicit activity.
Sliwa proposed that the Department of Buildings padlock and seize such properties, noting many landlords reside out of state, including in Delray, Florida.
Oct 16, 2025 at 08:41 PM EDT
Cuomo’s history with mayoral control resurfaces in debate
Andrew Cuomo’s strained relationship with former Mayor Bill de Blasio resurfaced during the debate, as critics recalled Cuomo’s repeated demands that de Blasio personally lobby Albany for mayoral control renewals.
Though Cuomo supported the concept of mayoral oversight of schools, he often questioned de Blasio’s leadership of the city’s education system.
The annual or biennial renewal process was widely viewed as a political maneuver amid their long-running feud.
Oct 16, 2025 at 08:39 PM EDT
Who is winning the NYC mayoral debate?
Zohran Mamdani has dominated debate segments focused on affordability, offering clear plans on transit, rent, and taxes. While his proposals—like a rent freeze and free buses—would require cooperation from Governor Kathy Hochul to raise taxes on wealthy New Yorkers, Mamdani has emphasized flexibility. He’s less concerned with the source of funding than with securing resources to deliver services.
Andrew Cuomo, by contrast, has yet to present a detailed strategy for lowering the city’s cost of living, leaving Mamdani with the edge on one of the race’s most pressing issues.
Oct 16, 2025 at 08:37 PM EDT
Did Zohran Mamdani vote for Kamala Harris? What to know
Mamdani confirmed he voted for Kamala Harris in the 2024 general election, casting his ballot on the Working Families Party line.
Though he didn’t endorse her publicly, the move marked a shift from his primary stance, when he backed the “Leave It Blank” protest against the Biden-Harris administration’s Israel-Gaza policy.
Oct 16, 2025 at 08:35 PM EDT
What are gifted and talented programs?
New York City offers two types of Gifted and Talented (G&T) programs for elementary students: district-based classes and five citywide schools. Admission is competitive and based on assessments, with additional factors like seat availability, sibling priority, and a lottery system.
District programs serve grades K-5 and prioritize residents across the city’s 32 districts. Citywide programs, which run from kindergarten to 8th grade, are highly selective and open to students citywide, regardless of residency.
Eligibility is determined through standardized tests: the NYC G&T Test for grades K-3 and state exams for grades 4-5. A score of 90% qualifies for district programs; 97% is required for citywide schools.
Students with disabilities are integrated into G&T classrooms with tailored support. Late applications are only accepted under specific technical or medical circumstances.
Nationally, few districts offer gifted programs starting in kindergarten, and most do not rely solely on teacher recommendations for admission.
Oct 16, 2025 at 08:32 PM EDT
Presidential picks spark laughter and disagreement on debate stage
During a lighter moment in Thursday’s mayoral debate, candidates were asked to name the most successful modern U.S. president.
Cuomo chose Bill Clinton, while Mamdani went with Franklin D. Roosevelt—prompting Cuomo to argue F.D.R. was outside the scope of “modern.”
Sliwa initially named former New York Governor George Pataki, but switched to Ronald Reagan after the question was clarified.
Oct 16, 2025 at 08:30 PM EDT
Mamdani highlights gaps in transit affordability
Mamdani noted that one in five New Yorkers is currently “priced out” of using public transportation. While the city’s Fair Fares program offers half-price rides to qualifying low-income residents, Mamdani argued it leaves out many who still struggle to afford daily commutes.
Oct 16, 2025 at 08:25 PM EDT
Mamdani leads on affordability, while Cuomo stalls on cost-of-living solutions
Mamdani has emerged as the strongest voice on affordability in Thursday’s mayoral debate, dominating discussions on transit, rent, and taxation.
His proposals—such as a rent freeze and free citywide bus service—have resonated with voters facing rising costs. However, they hinge on cooperation from Governor Kathy Hochul to raise taxes on wealthy New Yorkers.
Mamdani has signaled flexibility, saying he’s less concerned about where the funding comes from than ensuring programs like “fast and free buses” are fully paid for.
Oct 16, 2025 at 08:23 PM EDT
Cuomo compares Mamdani to de Blasio in sharp debate moment
Cuomo labeled Mamdani a “Mini-me B.D.B.,” a reference to former Mayor Bill de Blasio.
Cuomo, who clashed frequently with de Blasio during his time as governor, used the comparison to argue that Mamdani shares the same progressive policies and governing style he views as ineffective.
Oct 16, 2025 at 08:17 PM EDT
Mamdani defends congestion pricing, ties it to transit goals
Mamdani voiced strong support for Manhattan’s congestion pricing program during Thursday’s mayoral debate, calling it a success in reducing traffic and boosting transit funding. He noted a decrease in noise complaints within the toll zone and pledged to alleviate congestion further to enhance the quality of life.
Mamdani used the moment to highlight his broader transit agenda, including a promise to deliver free, faster buses citywide. The plan faces opposition from Trump, who has vowed to dismantle congestion pricing if reelected.
Oct 16, 2025 at 08:16 PM EDT
311 complaints spark debate over city services and public frustration
Noise complaints—New York City’s most common 311 issue—prompted a broader conversation during Thursday’s mayoral debate about the city’s responsiveness and mood. Cuomo called the city’s ethos “toxic,” saying residents are “angry with each other.” He added that his own test call to 311 was dropped twice.
Sliwa dismissed the hotline outright: “311 is a joke. I’ve called them many times,” he said, citing dropped calls and poor service.
Mamdani shared that he once called 311 to report inadequate heating in his apartment, highlighting persistent infrastructure issues in older buildings.
Oct 16, 2025 at 08:14 PM EDT
Cuomo criticizes Mamdani’s rent freeze plan as incomplete
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Cuomo took aim at Mamdani’s signature “freeze the rent” proposal during Thursday’s mayoral debate, calling it “half-baked” and insufficient to address the full scope of New York City’s housing crisis. “Freeze the rent only postpones the rent,” Cuomo said, arguing the plan ignores market-rate renters and homeowners facing displacement.
Moderators pressed Mamdani on why he supports the freeze without reviewing the latest data on rent-stabilized units. When asked about their own housing costs, Mamdani said he pays $2,300 in rent, Cuomo reported $7,800, and Curtis Sliwa noted a $3,900 mortgage.
Oct 16, 2025 at 08:11 PM EDT
Public safety plans clash over mental health response
Mamdani’s proposed Department of Community Safety sparked sharp debate Thursday night, with candidates split over how best to handle mental health emergencies. Mamdani said the new agency would deploy outreach workers in subway stations and free up police to focus on crime, improving response times citywide.
“If you want more of the same, vote for Andrew Cuomo,” Mamdani said, positioning his plan as a break from traditional policing.
Sliwa pushed back forcefully, warning that the proposal could endanger victims of domestic violence. Mamdani clarified that the department would not handle domestic violence calls, focusing instead on mental health and homelessness.
Oct 16, 2025 at 08:09 PM EDT
Free bus plan sparks fiscal debate in NYC mayoral race
Mamdani’s proposal to make city buses free has become a flashpoint in the mayoral race, with estimates ranging from $600 million to $1 billion in lost fare revenue annually. Mamdani says the cost could be covered through two new tax policies, though they would require approval from Albany, where Governor Hochul has resisted similar measures.
Cuomo criticized the plan as a subsidy for wealthy riders and warned it could turn buses into “mobile homeless shelters.” Mamdani countered with data from a 2023 pilot program showing no rise in shelter-seeking behavior, though bus speeds did decline due to increased ridership.
Oct 16, 2025 at 08:07 PM EDT
Zohran Mamdani’s name trips up Cuomo and Sliwa
Cuomo and Sliwa both stumbled over Zohran Mamdani’s name tonight. Cuomo, who has mispronounced Mamdani’s last name in the past, largely avoided saying it altogether, opting instead to call him “assemblyman.”
Sliwa, meanwhile, struggled with Mamdani’s first name, Zohran, during several exchanges. The slips added a subtle layer of tension to an already combative night.
Oct 16, 2025 at 08:02 PM EDT
Sliwa calls for overhaul of NYC property tax system
Sliwa spotlighted a widely shared concern: the need to reform New York City’s property tax system. He argued that the current structure unfairly burdens apartment buildings, making housing more expensive to build and maintain.
Sliwa noted that some homeowners, particularly in areas such as Staten Island, also face disproportionately high tax bills compared to similar properties throughout the city. Housing advocates have long cited the issue as a barrier to affordability and development.
Oct 16, 2025 at 07:58 PM EDT
What’s happened so far
Less than halfway into Thursday’s New York City mayoral debate, the candidates have already tackled major flashpoints: their political records, Trump’s threats to cut federal funding and deploy the National Guard, and the ongoing conflict in Israel and Gaza.
The pace has been brisk and the tone combative, with Zohran Mamdani and Andrew Cuomo trading rehearsed lines and sharp rebuttals. While few new revelations have emerged, the dynamic between the two front-runners has kept the spotlight on their contrasting styles.
Tense exchanges and frequent interruptions have marked the evening, as both candidates seek to land decisive blows ahead of Election Day.
Oct 16, 2025 at 07:57 PM EDT
Housing and grocery costs take center stage in mayoral debate
Affordability dominated Thursday’s New York City mayoral debate, with candidates clashing over housing policy and food prices. Zohran Mamdani defended his proposal to freeze rent for roughly 2 million rent-stabilized tenants and build 100,000 union-constructed affordable homes—an ambitious plan that would require significantly more city spending.
Andrew Cuomo reignited a campaign attack, suggesting Mamdani should give up his own rent-stabilized apartment to someone with a lower income. Mamdani did not respond directly but emphasized broader affordability goals.
When asked about weekly grocery spending, Mamdani estimated $125 to $150 and reiterated his pledge to open five city-owned grocery stores—one in each borough. Cuomo, who said he spends $150 weekly, dismissed the idea as “Soviet-style.” Curtis Sliwa, who reported spending $175, noted the rising cost of staples like milk but did not offer a specific plan to reduce food prices.
Oct 16, 2025 at 07:55 PM EDT
Candidates clash over police oversight and Mamdani’s past tweets
The future of police accountability took center stage during Thursday’s New York City mayoral debate, as candidates sparred over who should hold disciplinary power over officers found guilty of misconduct.
Zohran Mamdani proposed shifting that authority from the police commissioner to an independent board, arguing it would increase transparency and public trust. Andrew Cuomo opposed the move, insisting the commissioner should retain control. He also revived Mamdani’s 2020 tweets, which were controversially criticized by law enforcement.
Mamdani dismissed the attack, saying, “Andrew Cuomo is a politician of the past, and all he can speak about are the tweets of the past in 2020.”
Oct 16, 2025 at 07:51 PM EDT
Curtis Silwa brings up Andrew Cuomo’s dad, Mario Cuomo, during NYC mayor debate: What to know
Sliwa escalated the personal tone of Thursday’s New York City mayoral debate by invoking Andrew Cuomo’s father, the late Mario Cuomo, a three-term governor of New York. “I knew Mario Cuomo, you’re no Mario Cuomo,” Sliwa said.
Mario Cuomo, born in Queens, rose from a legal assistant to governor, earning national acclaim for his 1984 Democratic Convention keynote address and his leadership during his three terms. He was known for his progressive ideals and deep ties to New York’s working-class communities.
Oct 16, 2025 at 07:48 PM EDT
What did Mamdani say about the police and when did he apologize?
Mamdani delivered a public apology to the NYPD during a Fox News interview on Wednesday.
Pressed by host Martha MacCallum, Mamdani acknowledged his 2020 remarks calling the NYPD “racist, anti-queer & a major threat to public safety,” and said he now regrets the language. “I apologize because I’m looking to work with these officers,” he said. “They put their lives on the line every single day.”
The apology follows weeks of private meetings with police officers and comes amid persistent questions about how Mamdani would lead the department if elected. The Democratic Socialist has pledged to maintain NYPD staffing levels while launching a new Department of Community Safety to handle mental health emergencies with social workers, thereby freeing up officers for crime response.
Mamdani cited his legislative experience and a 2021 quote from Mayor Eric Adams to explain his shift in tone: “To deliver justice, you have to also deliver safety.”
Oct 16, 2025 at 07:45 PM EDT
Cuomo accuses, Mamdani pushes back in policing clash
Cuomo accused Mamdani of wanting to “disarm and defund the police,” referencing Mamdani’s past criticisms of law enforcement.
Mamdani swiftly rejected the claim, calling Cuomo’s statement false. “Cuomo lies again and again and again,” he said. “I am not running to defund the police. I am running to actually work with the police.”
Oct 16, 2025 at 07:39 PM EDT
Cuomo’s independence bid draws fire as candidates unite against Trump’s guard threat
Sliwa took a sharp jab at Cuomo, saying the former governor “doesn’t understand the word ‘no.’” The remark referred to Cuomo’s decision to run on an independent ballot line after losing the Democratic primary.
Cuomo used the moment to argue that only he could prevent Trump from deploying the National Guard to New York City if Mamdani were elected. Sliwa dismissed the claim, saying, “You think you’re the toughest guy alive. You lost your own primary.”
Despite the sparring, all three candidates agreed that Trump should not send federal troops into the city. Mamdani seized the opportunity to criticize Cuomo’s past handling of immigration enforcement, accusing him of minimizing federal crackdowns in other cities like Los Angeles.
Oct 16, 2025 at 07:34 PM EDT
Cuomo faces scrutiny over outreach to Muslim voters in NYC mayoral race
Despite Muslims representing a sizable and active voting bloc in the city, Cuomo has yet to name a single mosque he visited while serving as governor, as pointed out by Mamdani on the debate stage.
Mamdani, who would be the city’s first Muslim mayor, has made consistent outreach to Muslim communities a cornerstone of his campaign.
Oct 16, 2025 at 07:32 PM EDT
NYC mayoral candidates outline first message to Trump if elected
In a pointed moment during Thursday’s debate, the three candidates for New York City mayor were asked what they would say to President Trump in their first official call after taking office.
Mamdani said he would offer to collaborate on lowering the city’s cost of living but warned Trump against targeting New Yorkers. “If he ever wants to come for New Yorkers in the way that he has been, he's going to have to get through me,” Mamdani said.
Cuomo struck a more diplomatic tone, referencing past clashes during the pandemic. “I’d like to work with you... but I will fight you every step of the way if you try to hurt New York,” he said.
Sliwa described his decades-long “love/hate relationship” with Trump and said he would press the president to fund the Gateway Tunnel. “If you try to get tough with Trump, the only people that are going to suffer... are the people of New York City,” Sliwa said.
Oct 16, 2025 at 07:29 PM EDT
Religion and representation spark tense exchange in NYC mayoral debate
Religion took center stage during a heated segment of Thursday’s New York City mayoral debate, as Cuomo and Mamdani clashed over Muslim representation. Cuomo, who has faced criticism for rarely visiting mosques during his time in office, said Mamdani does not represent the city’s Muslim community. Mamdani, who would be New York’s first Muslim mayor, fired back: “It took Andrew Cuomo being beaten by a Muslim candidate to set foot in a mosque.”
The exchange highlighted Cuomo’s recent outreach efforts and Mamdani’s broader message of inclusion. Mamdani also addressed concerns from Jewish New Yorkers, stating in a recent synagogue meeting that their safety and identity should not hinge on views about Zionism. He reiterated his commitment to protecting Jewish institutions while maintaining his opposition to Israel as a Jewish state.
Oct 16, 2025 at 07:28 PM EDT
What were the Allegations Against Andrew Cuomo? What to Know
As Andrew Cuomo campaigns for New York City mayor, scrutiny over his 2021 resignation as governor has reemerged, Cuomo stepped down following multiple sexual harassment allegations and criticism over his administration’s handling of COVID-19 nursing home deaths.
State and federal investigations concluded that Cuomo fostered a hostile work environment and engaged in a pattern of misconduct. Cuomo denies the most serious claims and has called the investigations politically motivated.
Cuomo also faced backlash for underreporting nursing home deaths during the pandemic. Investigators found his administration excluded hospital deaths from official counts and altered a health department report to downplay the toll. A top aide later admitted the data was withheld to avoid federal scrutiny.
Though no criminal charges were filed, civil lawsuits remain active. Cuomo has expressed regret over resigning and continues to challenge the findings as he seeks a political comeback.
Oct 16, 2025 at 07:23 PM EDT
Cuomo defends COVID record as Mamdani presses nursing home criticism
Cuomo’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic surfaced early in Thursday’s New York City mayoral debate, reigniting scrutiny over his administration’s reporting of nursing home deaths in 2020. The New York Times and other outlets previously reported that Cuomo’s team obscured the full toll during the height of the crisis.
Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani confronted Cuomo directly, asking, “Why would New Yorkers turn back to the governor who sent seniors to their death in nursing homes?”
Cuomo pushed back, calling the accusation “totally false” and insisting that “everyone did whatever they could in this state.” He added that his heart breaks for the New Yorkers and Americans lost to the pandemic, framing the crisis as a moment of collective struggle rather than individual failure.
Oct 16, 2025 at 07:21 PM EDT
Trump dominates early NYC mayoral debate, overshadowing local issues
The opening minutes of Thursday’s New York City mayoral debate were dominated by discussions of Trump, sidelining traditional city concerns such as sanitation, education, and infrastructure. Candidates Zohran Mamdani, Andrew Cuomo, and Curtis Sliwa all addressed how they would respond to federal threats, including Trump’s recent decision to cancel the $16 billion Gateway rail tunnel project.
Curtis Sliwa attempted to redirect attention to local transit, criticizing plans for new Second Avenue Subway stations. “We do not need a Q train,” he said—despite the Q line already operating in the city.
Cuomo, meanwhile, faced scrutiny over his past interactions with Trump, which he downplayed during the debate. Mamdani emphasized his lack of any personal contact with the president, framing it as a strength.
The candidates agreed they would defend the city if Trump escalates pressure. Still, the debate’s early focus reflected how deeply national politics have permeated local governance—especially in Democratic strongholds like New York.
Oct 16, 2025 at 07:17 PM EDT
NYC mayoral candidates reveal past contact with Trump during debate
During Thursday night’s New York City mayoral debate, the candidates were asked about the last time they spoke with President Trump.
Cuomo said the last time he spoke with Trump was following the president’s assassination attempt in 2024, offering no further details about the conversation.
Mamdani stated plainly that he has never spoken to Trump. Sliwa said he had spoken to Trump “years ago."
Oct 16, 2025 at 07:12 PM EDT
Who was the last Republican mayor of New York City?
Rudy Giuliani, who served as New York City’s mayor from 1994 to 2001, remains the last Republican to complete a full term in office. His successor, Michael Bloomberg, was elected as a Republican but is often viewed as politically distinct from the party.
Bloomberg, originally a lifelong Democrat, switched to the GOP in 2001 to launch his mayoral bid. During his third term, he left the Republican Party and registered as an Independent. In 2018, he rejoined the Democratic Party, further distancing himself from his earlier affiliation.
Oct 16, 2025 at 07:11 PM EDT
Sliwa silent as Cuomo and Mamdani clash
Curtis Sliwa opened Thursday’s New York City mayoral debate with a brief statement. Still, he was quickly sidelined as Andrew Cuomo and Zohran Mamdani launched into a heated exchange over political experience.
When Sliwa finally got his first question, it focused on his lack of government experience—a point he embraced. The Republican nominee said he was proud of being an outsider, arguing that career politicians have failed the city and that fresh leadership is needed.
Oct 16, 2025 at 07:10 PM EDT
Cuomo and Mamdani clash early in NYC mayoral debate
The first sharp exchange of Thursday night’s New York City mayoral debate came early, as Andrew Cuomo aimed at Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani’s résumé. “If you look at the failed mayors, they are ones who have no management experience,” Cuomo said. “Don’t do it again.”
Mamdani, who has led in recent polls, fired back quickly, accusing Cuomo of being disconnected from the realities facing everyday New Yorkers. The moment underscored the tension between the former governor’s pitch for executive experience and Mamdani’s message of progressive change.
Oct 16, 2025 at 07:08 PM EDT
Zohran Mamdani frames mayoral legacy around Trump opposition and affordability
Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani says the headline he hopes to earn as mayor would read: “Mamdani Continues to Take on Trump, Delivers on Affordability.” The statement reflects the core message of his campaign in the final stretch of the race.
Mamdani has centered his platform on resisting Trump’s policies and expanding access to city services. His proposals include universal childcare and a free bus service—initiatives aimed at easing the financial burden on working-class New Yorkers.
Oct 16, 2025 at 07:07 PM EDT
Cuomo opens NYC mayoral debate with housing message as Sliwa ditches red beret
The first general election debate in the 2025 New York City mayoral race began with symbolic and strategic choices from the candidates. Independent candidate Andrew Cuomo launched into the discussion with the phrase “rent down,” signaling that housing affordability remains a central issue in the campaign.
Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa opened by acknowledging he was not wearing his trademark red beret—a rare departure from the uniform he’s worn since founding the Guardian Angels in 1979.
Oct 16, 2025 at 07:00 PM EDT
New York City mayoral debate starting now
The New York City mayoral debate is starting right now.
Get a second screen to watch it happen, but stay tuned to Newsweek's live updates.
Oct 16, 2025 at 06:58 PM EDT
Who’s moderating the NYC mayoral debate? Meet the journalists leading tonight’s showdown
Four veteran journalists from NBC 4 New York, Telemundo 47, and Politico will moderate Thursday’s first general election debate in the 2025 New York City mayoral race. The event features Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani, independent candidate Andrew M. Cuomo, and Republican Curtis Sliwa.
Moderators include David Ushery and Melissa Russo of WNBC-TV, Rosarina Bretón of Telemundo, and Sally Goldenberg of Politico New York. All four previously led the Democratic primary debate in June. A second general election debate with a new panel is scheduled for October 22.
Ushery, a longtime anchor, has covered major city events for over two decades and moderated debates since 1997. Russo, a seasoned political reporter, has interviewed national figures and covered key issues like homelessness and family court. Bretón brings Spanish-language news expertise and a decade of experience at NY1 Noticias. Goldenberg, Politico’s senior politics editor, has reported on multiple mayoral administrations and city policy.
The debate airs live tonight at 7 p.m. ET from NBC’s 30 Rockefeller Plaza studios.
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Oct 16, 2025 at 06:56 PM EDT
Why does Curtis Sliwa wear a red beret?
Curtis Sliwa’s signature red beret has been a fixture of New York City street life since 1979, when he founded the Guardian Angels, a volunteer anti-crime patrol group. The beret, paired with a white T-shirt, remains the organization’s official uniform and a key part of Sliwa’s public identity.
For decades, the red beret has served as a visual signal of safety—especially in the city’s subways, where the Guardian Angels first began their patrols. Sliwa has also said he wears it to honor members of the group who were killed or seriously injured while serving.
During his 2025 mayoral campaign, Sliwa has leaned into the beret’s visibility, using it to stand out at public events and media appearances. Still, he’s acknowledged its polarizing effect. In a recent campaign stop, he joked that if elected mayor, he’d retire the beret for good, recognizing that some voters see it as a distraction.
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Oct 16, 2025 at 06:52 PM EDT
Curtis Sliwa faces steep odds in NYC mayoral race as he heads into first debate against Cuomo and Mamdani
Curtis Sliwa, the founder of the Guardian Angels and a longtime New York media personality, enters Thursday’s mayoral debate as the Republican nominee—but with an uphill battle ahead. Despite his decades of visibility and a red beret that became a citywide symbol, Sliwa has yet to face off against his rivals in a live debate this cycle.
Sliwa, 71, ran unopposed for the GOP nomination and now trails both Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani and independent candidate Andrew Cuomo in recent polling. A Quinnipiac University survey earlier this month showed Sliwa with just 15 percent support, compared to Mamdani’s 46 percent and Cuomo’s 33 percent.
Cuomo’s allies have urged Sliwa to exit the race, arguing that his continued presence splits the anti-Mamdani vote. But Sliwa has refused, citing lingering Republican distrust of Cuomo and his own appeal to independents.
Public safety remains the centerpiece of Sliwa’s campaign. He’s pledged to hire 7,000 new police officers—2,000 more than Cuomo’s proposal—and to reverse City Council reforms that he says hinder law enforcement. His stance has drawn attention, but his strained relationship with President Trump and unconventional personal life, including plans to bring six rescue cats to Gracie Mansion, may complicate his pitch to conservative voters.
Oct 16, 2025 at 06:48 PM EDT
Latest polling for NYC mayoral race
A poll of New York City likely voters conducted by Quinnipiac University in early October, after Adams ended his bid for a second term, found that Mamdani continued to hold a lead over Cuomo. The poll suggested that Cuomo may have benefited somewhat from Adams’s departure, but the current mayor’s exit did not appear to have a meaningful impact on the state of the race.
Adams was not included in the poll but remains on the November ballot because he didn't withdraw his candidacy before the ballot deadline.
Oct 16, 2025 at 06:41 PM EDT
What to know about NYC mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa
Sliwa, the creator of the Guardian Angels crime patrol group, hopes to land a major upset in the intensely blue city.
Sliwa, who has been vocal in his views on immigration in the city and has a long history of working for the betterment of New Yorkers, received almost 30 percent of the vote when he last ran as the GOP candidate four years ago.
This time around, he's hoping Mamdani and Cuomo split the Democratic vote, while he secures the support of Republicans and centrists to come out on top. How the Republicans fare could be a key indicator of how voters feel about the GOP overall under Trump.
Oct 16, 2025 at 06:35 PM EDT
What to know about NYC mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani
Mamdani, a 33-year-old democratic socialist, is in a more comfortable position. However, he will need to fend off two hours of sharp jabs from Cuomo while maintaining the hopeful, charming vibe that has characterized his campaign.
The race has catapulted Mamdani to national political stardom, with Republicans, including President Donald Trump, trying to turn him into the face of the Democratic Party by highlighting his most controversial past comments and positions and casting him as a dangerous communist.
Trump has threatened to arrest Mamdani, to deport him, and even to take over New York City if he wins. Mamdani is a naturalized U.S. citizen.
Mamdani has tried to distance himself from some of his past statements, including calling the New York Police Department “a major threat to public safety,” and his refusal, during the Democratic primary, to disavow use of the phrase “globalize the intifada,” which is seen as a call to violence for many Jews.
Mamdani's brand of economic populism, which focuses on lowering the city's astronomical cost of living by advocating for the government to prioritize helping the lower and middle classes over the wealthy, has generated buzz and excitement.
At the same time, the state assemblyman's calls to raise taxes on the wealthy and intense criticisms of the Israeli government's military actions in Gaza have unnerved some centrists and conservatives. That's where Cuomo's rebooted campaign sees its path to victory.
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Oct 16, 2025 at 06:29 PM EDT
What to know about NYC mayoral candidate Andrew Cuomo
For Cuomo, a Democrat who is now running as an independent, the stakes are high. The debate is one of his last chances to sway voters to his side and convince them that going with Mamdani would be a mistake.
The race is also Cuomo’s attempt at a political comeback after he resigned as governor four years ago following a barrage of sexual harassment allegations. He denies wrongdoing but has faced heavy criticism over the scandal, along with other damaging issues he has faced during his tenure as governor.
Despite this record, Cuomo has emphasized his qualifications as the state's former governor when outlining his policies and has sought to make it clear to voters that he cares about the city and its residents.
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Oct 16, 2025 at 06:24 PM EDT
How to watch tonight’s New York City mayoral debate
Thursday's debate is the first of two planned events where the three candidates will face off.
The debate will be aired on WNBC-TV and across the network's streaming platforms at 7 p.m. ET.
Newsweek will also cover the debate live—so stay tuned.
Oct 16, 2025 at 06:19 PM EDT
NYC mayoral debate offers final chance to shift race before early voting
Just over a week before early voting begins, Thursday night’s New York City mayoral debate could be the last significant opportunity for candidates to reshape the race. Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani enters the event with a double-digit lead, while independent Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa aim to close the gap.
Hosted by NBC 4 New York, Telemundo 47, and Politico New York, the debate will be held at 30 Rockefeller Plaza and air live at 7 p.m. ET. Only the first hour will be televised, with the whole two-hour event available to stream online.
Cuomo, the former governor, is expected to target Mamdani’s progressive record and court centrist voters wary of both rivals. Sliwa, polling third, hopes to make a compelling case for staying in the race despite pressure to drop out.
Mamdani, now the frontrunner, faces scrutiny over past comments and must defend his evolving platform while maintaining support from his base. All three candidates will also be pressed on how they plan to handle President Trump’s threats to cut federal aid and intervene in city governance.
The debate marks the first time the trio will share a stage since Mayor Eric Adams exited the race. With early voting set to begin on October 25, tonight’s performance could prove decisive.
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