Mamdani Slams Cuomo’s ‘Racist’ Attacks Amid New York Mayoral Race

Former New York governor Andrew M. Cuomo is under fire from Democratic front‐runner Zohran Mamdani in the city’s mayoral race after comments that Mamdani says reflect “racist” and “disgusting” election tactics.

In a radio interview with conservative host Sid Rosenberg, Cuomo questioned whether Mamdani—if in office—could handle a major crisis such as another 9/11-style attack. Cuomo argued the mayor’s role demands training akin to a surgeon’s, and broached the scenario: “Can you imagine Mamdani in the seat on 9/11, what would have happened to this city?”

Mamdani, a state assembly member and if elected would become the city’s first Muslim mayor, responded sharply. He accused Cuomo of deploying racist rhetoric at the close of his public life: “He’s choosing to spend them making racist attacks on the person who would be the first Muslim to lead this city.”

Cuomo’s campaign defended the remarks, contending that his concern stemmed from Mamdani’s refusal to condemn the remarks of commentator Hasan Piker (who once said “America deserved 9/11”). Cuomo’s spokesperson argued the issue was not faith but qualification.
The conflict erupted further when Cuomo’s campaign posted an AI-generated video linking Mamdani to criminals and chaos—a piece of negative political advertising that critics described as full of racist stereotypes.

Observers say the episode illustrates both the stakes of New York’s mayoral contest and the shifting terrain of political messaging—where identity, faith and digital tactics collide. Mamdani holds a strong polling lead over both Cuomo (running as an independent after a primary loss) and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa.

What to watch

How the campaign responds to the accusations of racism, and whether ethics investigations or media scrutiny follow.

The impact of the AI-video controversy on voters’ perceptions of campaign tactics and credibility.

Whether Cuomo pivots strategy in the final stretch, or doubles down on questioning Mamdani’s readiness.

How faith and identity play into voter attitudes in a city where diversity is a key asset and flashpoint.