New York mayoral debate turns explosive: Mamdani faces attacks on Palestine support as Cuomo defends harassment allegations

With less than two weeks until New Yorkers head to the polls, the city’s final mayoral debate on Wednesday night turned into a heated political showdown that blended policy disputes with personal attacks and national controversies.

Democratic frontrunner Zohran Mamdani, independent candidate and former governor Andrew Cuomo, and Republican activist Curtis Sliwa faced off at LaGuardia Community College in Queens — a tense encounter that revealed deep divisions not only in policy but also in political style and temperament.

The evening opened with familiar lines of attack. Cuomo sought to undermine Mamdani’s credibility, branding him inexperienced and idealistic, while Mamdani accused Cuomo of clinging to political power and failing the city during his tenure as governor. “He’s a desperate man lashing out because his grip on power is slipping,” Mamdani fired.

Sliwa, never one to hold back, mocked both rivals: “Zohran, your résumé could fit on a cocktail napkin — and Andrew, your failures could fill a public school library.”

Trump’s Shadow and Immigration Tensions

Former U.S. President Donald Trump loomed large over the discussion. Hours before the debate, federal immigration agents raided Manhattan’s Chinatown, an event that quickly became a flashpoint.

Cuomo pledged to call Trump directly to stop future raids, framing himself as the only candidate capable of managing the White House. Sliwa countered that he would “negotiate with Trump” to protect the city’s interests.

Mamdani, however, called both men out, labeling Cuomo “Donald Trump’s puppet” and accusing him of fearmongering. He reminded viewers that Trump had threatened to deploy the National Guard and cut funding if Mamdani won. “Trump wants Cuomo in charge,” Mamdani said, “because he knows Cuomo will protect his interests — not ours.”

The Palestine Question and Accusations of Bias

The debate’s most charged moment came when Mamdani’s long-standing support for Palestinian rights resurfaced. Cuomo and Sliwa both accused him of inflaming religious divisions.

Cuomo cited a letter from hundreds of rabbis who claimed Mamdani’s comments endangered Jewish New Yorkers. Sliwa escalated, falsely accusing the candidate of endorsing “global jihad.”

Mamdani pushed back firmly. “These lies are being told because I’m the first Muslim on the verge of leading this city,” he said, reaffirming his commitment to protect and celebrate Jewish residents. He added plans to introduce Jewish history into public school curricula, arguing that inclusivity should define New York’s leadership.

Cuomo’s Past Under Scrutiny

The debate grew even more confrontational when Mamdani raised Cuomo’s 2021 resignation amid multiple sexual harassment allegations. “What do you say to the 13 women you harassed?” he asked pointedly, noting that one accuser, Charlotte Bennett, was present in the audience.

Cuomo insisted the cases had been dropped, calling Mamdani’s remarks “immature,” but several lawsuits remain active. Moments later, another accuser, Lindsey Boylan, took to X (formerly Twitter), thanking Mamdani for speaking up and condemning Cuomo’s mayoral bid.

Policy Highlights Amid the Chaos

Amid the drama, policy discussions occasionally emerged. Mamdani reiterated his affordability agenda — rent freezes, universal childcare, and free bus rides — which Cuomo dismissed as “fantasy economics.” Mamdani countered, “If you want a mayor who tells you what can’t be done, Cuomo’s your guy. I’m here to do what others won’t.”

All three candidates agreed to retain current Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, though Mamdani’s progressive supporters may see that as a compromise.

The debate ended with more clashes than clarity. As moderators struggled to maintain order, the candidates refused to name preferred presidential picks for 2028.

Early voting for New York’s mayoral election begins October 25, with Election Day set for November 4 — a race shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable in recent city history.

FAQs

1. Who are the main candidates in New York’s 2025 mayoral election?
The race features Democrat Zohran Mamdani, independent Andrew Cuomo, and Republican Curtis Sliwa.

2. Why was the debate so controversial?
It featured fierce exchanges over Palestine, Trump’s influence, and Cuomo’s sexual harassment record, overshadowing policy discussions.

3. When is the New York mayoral election taking place?
Election Day is November 4, 2025, with early voting from October 25 to November 2.