Republican mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa of New York City has launched a blistering attack on his socialist opponent, Zohran Mamdani, accusing him of ‘sanctimonious hypocrisy’ for his inconsistent stance on police protection. Sliwa highlighted that Mamdani, who once called for defunding the police during the 2020 George Floyd protests, is now being escorted by an armed NYPD detail after returning from Uganda. Sliwa criticized Mamdani for advocating for social workers over police in public safety, while simultaneously enjoying private security. The debate intensified as Sliwa also criticized Mamdani for his anti-Israel rhetoric, linking it to the NYPD’s Strategic Response Group, which he claims is involved in pro-Palestinian demonstrations. Mamdani, in turn, defended his security arrangements, stating they are a necessary precaution due to increased threats. The clash underscores the deepening divide between the two candidates on policing, security, and political ideology.
The tension between Sliwa and Mamdani has intensified over the past weeks, particularly after the midtown shooting that left four people dead. Sliwa accused Mamdani of opposing the NYPD’s Strategic Response Group, which was deployed to handle the incident. He argued that Mamdani’s criticism of the group is hypocritical, given his reliance on NYPD security. Mamdani, meanwhile, defended his support for the police, stating that the NYPD officer who was killed in the shooting deserves to be honored.
Mamdani has also faced scrutiny over his previous statements, including his call to defund the police during the 2020 George Floyd protests and his criticism of the NYPD as ‘racist.’ These comments have drawn sharp rebukes from conservative critics, who accuse him of endangering public safety. In response, Mamdani has distanced himself from his past remarks, stating that they were made out of frustration over the death of George Floyd and are now out of step with the current situation.
The campaign has also become a battleground for broader ideological clashes, particularly around anti-Israel sentiment. Sliwa has accused Mamdani of promoting ‘jihad’ through his pro-Palestinian activism, while Mamdani has dismissed these allegations as political attacks. The issue has gained traction as it resonates with many voters concerned about national security and the role of law enforcement in protecting citizens.
As the mayoral race heats up, the debate over police reform, security, and political ideology remains at the center of the campaign. Both candidates are vying to shape the future of New York City’s governance, with Sliwa emphasizing law and order and Mamdani prioritizing social equity. The outcome of the race could have significant implications for the city’s policies and public safety priorities in the coming years.