Intense NYC Mayoral Showdown: Mamdani Leads Polls as Cuomo and Sliwa Clash Over Experience, Affordability and Safety

Oct 17, 2025 04:05 pm CST

In a high-stakes debate at Rockefeller Center, NYC mayoral candidates Zohran Mamdani, Andrew Cuomo, and Curtis Sliwa confronted critical issues facing the city. Democratic frontrunner Mamdani (46% in polls) defended his stance on Palestine-Israel relations and lack of political experience, while Independent Cuomo (33%) questioned his opponent's qualifications and addressed past controversies. All candidates presented differing visions for addressing New York's affordability crisis, public safety concerns, and educational reforms as early voting approaches.