During a New York mayoral debate, candidates Andrew Cuomo, Curtis Sliwa, and Tali Mamdani engaged in discussions primarily concerning leadership experience and public service records. Cuomo and Sliwa challenged Mamdani's qualifications, citing his perceived lack of extensive experience and highlighting Cuomo's own lengthy career in government at both state and federal levels. Mamdani countered, suggesting that the established "experience" of his opponents was a point of contention for voters.
To scrutinize former Governor Cuomo's tenure, Mamdani's campaign brought attendees, including Charlotte Bennett, who has publicly accused Cuomo of sexual harassment. Mamdani further accused Cuomo of "fear-mongering," redirecting the debate's focus to New Yorkers' ability to afford a "safe and dignified life" in the city. Sliwa, expressing strong opposition to Cuomo, stated that the former governor had "got nothing right."
A specific exchange involved Mamdani commending the efficiency of a city-run COVID-19 vaccine site, a claim that Cuomo disputed. The debate occurred in the context of the upcoming 4 November election, with Sliwa's ongoing participation noted as a factor in Cuomo's electoral prospects.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/oct/23/shouting-and-ready-to-bump-chests-with-trump-but-nobody-moved-the-needle-in-the-final-new-york-mayoral-debate