NEW YORK (AP) — Former Governor Andrew Cuomo entered Thursday evening’s first New York mayoral debate aiming to challenge Democratic frontrunner Zohran Mamdani’s momentum. Instead, he found himself largely on defense, addressing criticisms from Mamdani and Republican Curtis Sliwa regarding his extensive tenure in office.
Cuomo, now running as an independent, attempted to label Mamdani’s platform as excessively extreme, claiming he lacks the experience necessary to steer New York City. In response, Mamdani, who describes himself as a democratic socialist, countered by criticizing Cuomo's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and addressing the sexual harassment allegations against him, which Cuomo has denied.
After a two-hour debate that also touched on issues such as the city’s relationship with President Donald Trump, quality of life matters, and overarching affordability in NYC, it was unclear whether any of the candidates managed to significantly sway undecided voters.
The stakes were notably high for Cuomo during this debate, marking one of his final opportunities to persuade voters against opting for Mamdani, who had previously bested the once-prominent governor in the summer's primary. This race represents Cuomo's calculated attempt for a political comeback following his resignation four years ago due to sexual harassment claims.
While Mamdani remained optimistic and maintained a charming persona throughout the debate, he continued to champion an affordability-focused agenda aimed at enhancing the quality of life for New Yorkers. Conversely, Sliwa, depicted as an underdog, attempted to garner attention amidst calls for him to step back, not taking the expected route of joining forces with Cuomo against Mamdani, instead focusing his attacks on the former governor.
This heated discourse also had a larger backdrop, with incumbent Mayor Eric Adams suspending his reelection campaign recently due to troubles including a dismissed federal corruption case.
In a series of pointed exchanges, Cuomo criticized Mamdani's lack of experience, emphasizing that the mayoralty requires seasoned leadership. This is not a job for a first-timer, he asserted, attempting to convey that meeting the demands of NYC governance necessitates seasoned experience.
However, Mamdani retorted, asserting, What I lack in experience I compensate for with integrity. Experience cannot substitute for integrity.
Cuomo also endeavored to present himself as the true Democrat on stage, even as he campaigned independently of the Democratic ticket.
The debate’s fabric included significant moments regarding Mamdani’s past comments on Israel and his strategies moving forward, particularly in relation to the contentious relationship with law enforcement and the public safety narrative within New York City.
The contentious atmosphere and charged exchanges were underscored by the looming presence of Donald Trump’s influence in the race, as candidates were forced to address how they would manage Trump should they win the election, with Mamdani asserting the need for a mayor who can directly confront the president.
A second and final debate is already on the horizon, promising to further intensify this dynamic electoral contest.
