Republican mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa has launched a pointed attack on Zohran Mamdani, a Democratic City Council member known for his progressive stance on policing, accusing him of hypocrisy for maintaining an NYPD security detail despite publicly criticizing police practices. The exchange marks a significant moment in the evolving mayoral race, where candidates are increasingly using their positions on law enforcement to differentiate themselves. Sliwa, a former Staten Island radio personality and political figure, framed Mamdani’s actions as a failure to live by his own principles, highlighting the growing polarization around police reform in New York City.
Mamdani, who has long advocated for defunding the NYPD and has spoken out against systemic racism within the department, has faced criticism from both sides of the political spectrum for his positions. Sliwa’s accusation that Mamdani is “doing as I say and not as I do” reflects the broader debate over how to balance public safety with civil liberties. The incident underscores the contentious nature of police reform in the city, with candidates using their platforms to push for specific policies.
The controversy adds another layer to the mayoral race, where candidates are increasingly focusing on their personal stances on policing to appeal to voters. Sliwa’s critique of Mamdani is part of a larger trend of political attacks aimed at undermining opponents’ credibility on key issues. As the race progresses, the issue of police reform is expected to remain a central point of contention, shaping the political landscape in New York City.