During a business breakfast in the Hamptons, Governor Kathy Hochul made a clear statement against Zohran Mamdani’s city-run grocery initiative, highlighting her support for free enterprise. Her remarks were met with positive reactions from the attendees, including billionaire supermarket mogul John Catsimatidis, who emphasized his criticism of the plan’s feasibility. Catsimatidis, whose Gristedes and D’Agostino chains are potential targets of Mamdani’s proposal, praised Hochul’s stance, arguing that such government-run grocery stores are not viable. This opposition marks a significant setback for Mamdani’s agenda, adding to the growing resistance from within the Democratic Party.
Critics, including former Governor Andrew Cuomo, have pointed to the failed model of Kansas City’s government-run grocery store, which closed after wasting millions of taxpayer dollars. Cuomo’s spokesman, Rich Azzopardi, emphasized that the solution to food insecurity lies in well-thought-out plans rather than Soviet-style models, warning against the risks of such socialist initiatives. Cuomo also took to social media to criticize Mamdani, stating that his proposal lacks the necessary policies to address real affordability issues, while also accusing him of using his wealthy background as an excuse for failure. These comments underscore the deepening political divide over progressive policies.
Meanwhile, Mamdani continues to face scrutiny over his housing policies, including an ethics complaint regarding his alleged misuse of a rent-stabilized apartment while earning a substantial income as a legislator. His campaign has dismissed these criticisms as politically motivated, but the situation remains a point of contention. As Hochul and Cuomo continue to oppose Mamdani’s plan, the debate over public versus private enterprise intensifies, reflecting broader ideological battles within the Democratic Party. The outcome of this political struggle could have significant implications for New York City’s future policies and governance.