Seven Democratic Candidates Debate New York City Mayoral Primary

The Democratic primary for New York City mayor is heating up with a tight race primarily between former Governor Andrew Cuomo and Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani, as highlighted in the recent final debate hosted by NY1 at John Jay College. Cuomo, a moderate with a notable political background, faced sharp criticism over past controversies, including sexual harassment allegations and his handling of COVID-19 in nursing homes, while Mamdani, a democratic socialist, defended his progressive policies including taxing the rich and rent freezes. The debate revealed stark contrasts on key issues such as rent-stabilized housing, where most candidates support a rent freeze except Cuomo and Whitney Tilson, and immigration, with strong backing for the city's sanctuary laws in opposition to President Trump's policies. Polls show Cuomo leading overall, particularly with Black voters and older demographics, while Mamdani enjoys stronger support among younger, white, and college-educated voters. With early voting starting June 14 and the primary on June 24, both frontrunners are intensifying their campaigns, using endorsements, super PACs, and direct confrontations to sway voters. Additional candidates like Brad Lander, Adrienne Adams, and Scott Stringer remain in the race, seeking to impact the outcome before the election.