New York Mayoral Showdown: Cuomo, Mamdani, and Sliwa Clash in Final Heated Debate

Independent Andrew Cuomo, Republican Curtis Sliwa, and Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani faced off in New York's final mayoral debate, which quickly descended into personal attacks and contentious exchanges.

Democratic frontrunner Zohran Mamdani found himself defending his limited political experience as opponents questioned his qualifications to lead America's largest city. Despite initially stating he would focus on his vision for New Yorkers, Mamdani engaged in heated exchanges, even inviting one of Cuomo's accusers to attend the debate.

Former Governor Andrew Cuomo, running as an independent after losing the Democratic primary, performed more effectively than in their previous debate. He emphasized his extensive political experience and knowledge of city operations, while portraying Mamdani, a 34-year-old democratic socialist, as underqualified for the demanding role.

Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa attempted to position himself as a serious contender while criticizing both opponents for their combative approach. Though Cuomo had previously urged Sliwa to withdraw to avoid splitting votes against Mamdani, he didn't repeat this request during the debate.

Mamdani launched several pointed attacks against his rivals, claiming they "speak only in the past because that is all they know" and describing Cuomo as "a desperate man, lashing out because he knows that the one thing he cares about, power, is slipping away from him."

Cuomo countered by highlighting Mamdani's inexperience: "You have never had a job. You've never accomplished anything," asserting the state assemblyman lacks the qualifications to manage New York City and its emergencies.

Sliwa accused both opponents of "fighting like kids in a school yard" before adding his own critique: "Zorhan, your resume could fit on a cocktail napkin. And, Andrew, your failures could fill a public school library in New York City." He repeatedly referenced the sexual harassment allegations that led to Cuomo's resignation as governor.

The debate covered substantive local issues including crime, public transportation, and the troubled Rikers Island jail complex. Mamdani faced criticism for declining to take positions on November ballot initiatives and surprised some by stating he would ask Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch to remain in her position despite his previous criticisms of the police department.

All candidates condemned recent immigration enforcement actions on Manhattan's Canal Street that resulted in 14 arrests. Cuomo argued that Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents weren't needed to address quality-of-life crimes like counterfeit goods sales, while Mamdani called ICE "a reckless entity that cares little for the law."

The candidates also addressed how they would handle potential interactions with former President Donald Trump. Cuomo emphasized his past experience managing Trump during the COVID-19 pandemic and claimed a Mamdani victory would be a "dream" for Trump. "He has said he'll take over New York if Mamdani wins, and he will! Because he has no respect for him. He thinks he's a kid," Cuomo declared.

Mamdani countered by portraying Cuomo as Trump's "puppet," suggesting Trump favors Cuomo "not because it will be good for New Yorkers, but because it will be good for him." Sliwa warned against antagonizing Trump, simply stating: "You can't beat Trump."

The sexual harassment allegations that forced Cuomo's resignation remained a significant issue. Mamdani revealed that Charlotte Bennett, one of Cuomo's accusers and former aides, was present in the audience—a tactic reminiscent of Trump's 2016 debate appearance with accusers of Bill Clinton. "What do you say to the 13 women that you sexually harassed?" Mamdani asked, noting the taxpayer funds spent defending Cuomo.

Cuomo maintained his innocence and criticized Mamdani's approach: "If you want to be in government, then you have to be serious and mature." Bennett had previously alleged Cuomo subjected her to inappropriate questions about her personal life and relationships, which Cuomo denies.

As the debate concluded, candidates acknowledged that many New Yorkers were likely watching the Knicks' season opener instead. Cuomo later attended the game's second half, where he was photographed sitting with current Mayor Eric Adams.