In the first general mayoral debate, socialist candidate Zohran Mamdani maintained his status as the leading contender, according to a panel of political experts from the Post, even in light of commendable performances from his opponents.
Former Governor Andrew Cuomo, running as an independent, alongside Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa, effectively challenged the Democratic frontrunner by focusing on pressing issues such as Israel, Mamdani’s previous calls for police defunding, and his limited experience.
However, experts argue that their efforts may not significantly impact the race.
“All candidates performed well, which might be concerning for those against a socialist mayor,” remarked Republican strategist Bill O’Reilly in an interview with The Post.
“Will it alter the campaign dynamic? We will find out in the days to come.”
Lee Miringoff, director of the Marist University Institute for Public Opinion, also expressed skepticism about any major shifts in voter sentiment occurring prior to the election on November 4.
“I didn’t see any significant changes in voter attitudes stemming from this debate,” Miringoff commented following the two-hour confrontation broadcasted by NBC 4 New York, Telemundo, and Politico.
“There was no ‘a-ha’ moment,” he added.
A Fox News poll released just before the debate indicated that Mamdani had surpassed 50% support for the first time in the fiercely contested race.
The progressive candidate secured 52% of likely voters, while Cuomo and Sliwa trailed at 28% and 14%, respectively, the poll revealed.
According to veteran Democratic strategist Bill Cunningham, one significant observation was Mamdani’s ability to hold firm, with Sliwa showing strong performance as well.
“I doubt it will influence much unless the 10% of undecided voters begin to shift toward him, but that’s not a sufficient number to secure the mayoralty,” said Cunningham.
“I don’t think Mamdani has lost any supporters, nor do I believe Cuomo managed to deliver a decisive blow that would impact the race.”
Republican strategist Rob Ryan praised Cuomo, citing his experience as an advantage.
“He presented himself well, and aimed to be congenial, which is a challenge for him. I’d give him an A for demonstrating superior issue knowledge,” Ryan said.
Panelists noted Mamdani’s skill at sticking to his core message of “affordability” throughout the rigorous debate at 30 Rockefeller Center.
“Regardless of personal opinions on his views about Israel, Hamas, policing, gifted programs, property rights, increased taxation, or legalized prostitution, Mamdani has successfully maintained message discipline and highlighted the city’s affordability crisis,” commented Democratic operative Ken Frydman.
“That’s crucial for winning elections.”
Political strategist Andrew Kirtzman noted that while Mamdani does face challenges on certain issues that could make him a target, his adept communication skills kept him from suffering significant setbacks in the debate.
Democratic operative and lobbyist Yvette Buckner remarked that little has changed since Mamdani’s decisive victory over Cuomo in the Democratic primary back in June.
“The debate seemed like a repetition of the primary. Mamdani remained calm under pressure, while Cuomo lacked the necessary impact to alter the race at this late stage,” she stated.
Ryan also applauded Sliwa’s performance.
“A refined and mature Curtis Sliwa—sans the red beret—appeared serious and knowledgeable about the issues,” he noted.
“Additionally, he deserves recognition for not mentioning feral cats during the debate.”
