In a recent development, Zohran Mamdani, a candidate for the New York City mayoral race, has branded the current Mayor, Eric Adams, as "extreme" and "radical."
This came in response to Adams' decision to withdraw from the race, a move that has stirred the political waters of the city.
According to Fox News, Mamdani made these remarks during an interview on MSNBC's "The Weekend Primetime." He was asked to comment on Adams' farewell message, in which the Mayor warned of growing extremism in politics and the radicalization of children against their city and country.
Adams cautioned against those advocating for the destruction of the system built over generations, labeling such actions as chaotic rather than transformative.
In response, Mamdani stated, "Well, I think that the only thing I truly find to be extreme is Eric Adamss record. This is a man whos raised the rent on more than 2 million New Yorkers by 12%, a man who slowed down already the slowest buses in the country, one who priced New Yorkers out of childcare that cost them about $25,000 a year. Thats whats extreme. Thats whats radical." Mamdani argued that his vision of affordability was nothing more than "common sense."
The democratic socialist candidate also suggested that New Yorkers were ready for a change in direction. He referenced Adams' previous remarks about former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, calling him a "liar and a snake."
Mamdani said, "I think that New Yorkers are tired of that kind of politics. Theyre tired of considering the architect of this affordability crisis and Andrew Cuomo as being the next mayor of the city. They want a new direction."
In the fundraising and spending aspects of the campaign, Adams lagged behind both Mamdani and Cuomo. Despite Adams' withdrawal, Cuomo remains in the race, albeit trailing significantly behind Mamdani in the polls.
Mamdani viewed Adams' exit as a turning point, promising in a social media post that the upcoming November elections would "turn the page on the politics of big money and small ideas." He boldly stated, "Donald Trump and his billionaire donors might be able to determine Eric Adams and Andrew Cuomos actions, but they will not dictate the results of this election."
When asked if he would be willing to make any policy concessions to appeal to more moderate voters, Mamdani replied, "The policies that Im running on are the ones still from the primary, but Im also willing to speak to everyone and anyone, because sometimes the concerns are based more on a caricature of me as opposed to who I actually am."
He went on to explain his plans to freeze the rent of 2 million rent-stabilized tenants and make buses faster and free, arguing that the cost would be less than the tax breaks Andrew Cuomo gave to Elon Musk.
Mamdani's comments reflect his commitment to a new direction for New York City, one that challenges the status quo and seeks to address the affordability crisis. His stance against big money politics and his focus on affordability and public transport resonate with many New Yorkers, who are eager for change.
Login