Key Points:
- Cuomo heavily criticized for past controversies and leadership
- Mamdani attacks Cuomo’s experience and ethics
- Debate focused on Trump’s impact on NYC politics
- Cuomo pledges strong stance against Trump’s policies
- Sexual harassment allegations against Cuomo frequently raised
- Lander highlights Cuomo’s pandemic nursing home handling
- Candidates debate housing, subway safety, immigration policies
- Mamdani gains momentum with progressive platform and endorsements
- Cuomo appeals to older and Black voters
- Early voting begins June 14; primary on June 24
In the final Democratic primary debate before New York City’s mayoral election, held on June 12, 2025, former Governor Andrew Cuomo faced intense scrutiny from his rivals, particularly Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani and City Comptroller Brad Lander. The debate, hosted at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, was marked by sharp personal attacks, policy clashes, and a shared focus on confronting former President Donald Trump’s influence on the city. As early voting looms, the candidates sought to differentiate themselves on issues ranging from housing affordability to public safety, while the specter of Cuomo’s controversial past loomed large.
Cuomo Under Fire: Controversies and Criticisms
Sexual Harassment Allegations and Resignation
Cuomo, who resigned as governor in 2021 amid multiple credible sexual harassment allegations which he denies, was repeatedly targeted by opponents. Mamdani did not hold back:
“I have never pursued the 13 women who have credibly accused me of harassment,” he said, contrasting his record with Cuomo’s.
City Comptroller Brad Lander also confronted Cuomo directly, citing the state Attorney General’s investigation that led to Cuomo’s resignation.
“Everyone here knows you sexually harassed women, that you created a toxic work environment,” Lander said.
Cuomo defended himself, calling the allegations “bold-faced lies” and “political.” The accusations clearly shaped the tone of the debate and voter perceptions.
Pandemic Nursing Home Handling
Lander criticized Cuomo’s management of nursing home fatalities during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the controversy over policies that allegedly led to thousands of deaths. Cuomo was pressed to respond to Peter Arbeeny, whose father died in a nursing home during the crisis. Cuomo denied wrongdoing but faced significant pressure on this issue.
Mamdani’s Challenge: Experience and Progressive Vision
Questioning Cuomo’s Experience
Cuomo repeatedly attacked Mamdani’s youth and limited political experience, warning:
“Placing someone in this role at this moment without any experience is irresponsible and perilous.”
Mamdani, 33, countered by accusing Cuomo of being out of touch and aligned with the special interests that also back Trump. He positioned himself as a fresh alternative, emphasizing progressive policies like free bus service and government-run grocery stores funded by taxing the wealthy.
Progressive Momentum and Endorsements
Mamdani’s campaign gained traction with endorsements from prominent progressives including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Polls show Mamdani closing the gap on Cuomo, particularly among younger and college-educated voters.
The Trump Factor: Who Can Take Him On?
Cuomo’s Tough Talk on Trump
Cuomo sought to frame the race as a contest of who can best oppose Donald Trump’s policies and influence.
“Donald Trump only picks fights he can win. He cannot win a fight with me,” Cuomo declared.
He criticized Trump’s handling of urban unrest and federal interventions, pledging that Trump would never send troops into New York if Cuomo is mayor.
Candidates’ Shared Opposition
All candidates expressed opposition to Trump’s policies, particularly his immigration crackdown and attacks on sanctuary cities. The debate underscored the centrality of Trump as a political foil in the race.
Key Policy Debates
Housing Affordability
Affordable housing dominated discussion, with most candidates supporting rent freezes or expanded rent stabilization. Cuomo and Whitney Tilson stood out by opposing a rent freeze, drawing criticism from rivals.
Public Safety and Subway Security
Candidates debated strategies to address rising subway crime and public safety concerns. Cuomo emphasized his “aggressive leadership” style, while Mamdani proposed community-based solutions and increased social services.
Immigration and Sanctuary Policies
Nearly all candidates affirmed support for New York City’s sanctuary policies, opposing Trump’s immigration enforcement tactics. This issue resonated strongly with the city’s diverse electorate.
Voter Demographics and Polling Insights
Cuomo’s Base
Cuomo polls strongest among Black voters and those over 50, demographics that have historically supported his leadership style and experience.
Mamdani’s Strengths
Mamdani leads with younger voters, white voters, and college-educated residents, reflecting his appeal as a progressive outsider.
Tightening Race
Recent polls show a narrowing gap, with some surveys placing Mamdani ahead or within a few points of Cuomo, setting up a competitive primary.
Other Candidates and Their Impact
Brad Lander’s Role
Though trailing in polls, Lander delivered a strong debate performance, focusing attacks on Cuomo’s past and highlighting his own record as city comptroller.
Remaining Candidates
Other contenders touched on issues like climate change, education, and economic recovery but struggled to break through the Cuomo-Mamdani duopoly.
The final New York City mayoral debate crystallized the stark contrasts between Andrew Cuomo and Zohran Mamdani, with Cuomo defending his record amid controversies and Mamdani positioning himself as a bold progressive alternative. The debate’s sharp personal exchanges and policy disputes set the stage for a high-stakes primary as early voting begins June 14 and the election approaches on June 24. Voters face a choice between experience and change, with the shadow of Donald Trump looming large over the contest.