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Barbs fly as Mamdani and Cuomo meet in final, furious New York mayoral debate

October 23, 2025

In their final debate before the November 4 election, New York City mayoral candidates Zohran Mamdani, Andrew Cuomo, and Curtis Sliwa engaged in heated exchanges on topics including housing, federal immigration raids, and the Israel-Gaza conflict. Democratic frontrunner Mamdani, who polls show holds a double-digit lead, faced attacks from both Independent Cuomo and Republican Sliwa on his work attendance record and position on affordable housing initiatives. The candidates also addressed how they would interact with the incoming Trump administration, with all three agreeing that local police rather than federal agents should handle street vendor issues, though differing on broader engagement strategies with the White House.

Who is affected

  • New York City voters who will select their next mayor on November 4
  • Residents of New York City who will be governed by the elected mayor
  • Street vendors in Chinatown who were detained by federal immigration officers
  • Jewish and Muslim New Yorkers affected by tensions related to the Israel-Gaza conflict
  • LGBTQ+ New Yorkers mentioned in discussions of policies and protections
  • Protesters demonstrating for Palestinian rights in New York City

What action is being taken

  • The three mayoral candidates are participating in televised debates to present their visions to voters
  • Early voting is beginning on Saturday ahead of the November 4 election
  • Federal immigration officers are conducting raids in New York City's Chinatown, detaining street vendors
  • Protesters are demonstrating in New York City streets regarding the Israel-Gaza conflict
  • Candidates are actively campaigning and attacking each other's records and positions

Why it matters

  • The outcome will determine who leads America's largest city
  • The debate represents the final high-profile opportunity for candidates to reach voters before the election
  • The candidates offer different approaches to critical issues including housing, public safety, and relations with the federal government
  • The election occurs against the backdrop of significant national and international tensions, including the Trump presidency and Middle East conflict
  • The race features New York's first Muslim mayoral candidate who could potentially win the election

What's next

  • Early voting begins on Saturday
  • Election day is on November 4
  • Voters will also consider affordable housing ballot initiatives on November 4

Read full article from source: BBC