The Next Mayor of NYC is a Fraud
Segment #576
O'Leary Ventures chairman Kevin O'Leary discusses NYC mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani's campaign and 'Five Boroughs Against Trump' tour on 'America Reports.'. Where can a inexperienced socialist extremist take a city already reeling from debt, crime, and a fleeing tax base. This is far more serious than an economic blow to NYC. It is a national security issue as foreign capital tries to buy New York and international influence. Odds are that Mamdani wins.
Mamdani like AOC, Sanders, and Warren have come from privileged backgrounds and could care less about the working class. Their mantra is power and they will do anything or say anything to get elected. They are frauds; however, it appears that NYC is corrupt enough to elect a flaming socialist to run the most important capitalist city in the world. How do you think that will work out?
Here's a breakdown of the situation:
Zohran Mamdani's background and income: Zohran Mamdani is a New York State Assemblymember.2 His salary is reported to be around $142,000 to $143,000 per year.3 He has also been criticized by opponents for his privileged background, including his parents' professional careers and his own past work in film and music production. Additionally, he reportedly owns land in Uganda.4 His critics argue that his combined household income and assets make him "wealthy."5
The rent-stabilized apartment: Mamdani lives in a one-bedroom, rent-stabilized apartment in Astoria, Queens, for which he and his wife pay $2,300 per month.6 Rent-stabilized apartments in New York City are not necessarily designated for low-income residents; the program is meant to provide housing stability and prevent dramatic rent increases.
The political controversy: Mamdani's political opponent, former governor Andrew Cuomo, has criticized him for living in a rent-stabilized apartment despite his substantial income.7 Cuomo has argued that Mamdani is "a rich person stealing affordable housing from the poor" and has even proposed a bill, "Zohran's Law," that would bar "wealthy" tenants from accessing rent-stabilized units.8
Mamdani's and his supporters' response: Mamdani's campaign has responded by stating that he qualified for the apartment based on his income at the time he moved in, which was significantly lower (around $47,000 per year).9 His supporters also point out that the rent-stabilization program is not a means-tested affordable housing program but rather a system designed to provide stability for all qualifying tenants, regardless of income.
Zohran Mamdani, a New York State Assembly member and Democratic candidate for mayor of New York City, identifies as a democratic socialist.1 He is a member of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) and his platform is aligned with many of their principles.2
His political statements and policy proposals focus on issues of affordability and economic justice for working people.3 Key proposals from his platform include:
Housing: A rent freeze on rent-stabilized apartments, which make up a significant portion of New York City's housing stock.4 He also supports building more affordable housing units and increasing enforcement for landlords.5
Transportation: Making all city buses fare-free and improving bus service by creating more dedicated lanes.6
Public Services: Proposing the creation of city-owned grocery stores to combat "halalflation" and high food costs.7 He also advocates for universal, city-run childcare.8
Labor and Taxes: Raising the city's minimum wage to $30 an hour by 2030 and funding his proposals through a heightened income tax for millionaires and an increase in the corporate tax rate.9
The Worst Nightmare for Democrats
Zohran Mamdani’s major upset against Andrew Cuomo in the New York City mayoral primary election sent a clear message that voters want change within their party. Former NY Rep. Mondaire Jones joins “The Weekend: Primetime” to discuss the lessons learned from Mamdani’s success.