MAMDANI draws scrutiny for vague answers in NYC mayoral race

Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic socialist leading the New York City mayoral race, is facing mounting criticism for repeatedly dodging direct questions in recent public forums and television interviews.

New York Post reported that the candidate’s lack of clear responses on major city issues has sparked concerns among political insiders about his readiness to manage the complexities of City Hall if elected.

Mamdani’s most recent test came at a public safety forum at Columbia Journalism School, where he was asked about the role of school safety agents and the handling of protests. Instead of offering a concrete plan, he redirected the discussion toward the lack of nurses and social workers in schools, saying this imbalance reflected a “broken status quo.”

Shifting Rhetoric Raises Eyebrows

The front-runner has also participated in weekend interviews with CNN and CBS2 New York, where his tendency to sidestep questions became more visible. When CNN’s Abby Phillip pressed him about the role of extreme wealth, he shifted the discussion to struggles of working-class New Yorkers rather than addressing trillionaires directly.

Similarly, when asked about deploying the National Guard to patrol subway systems, Mamdani avoided a direct stance. He argued instead that New Yorkers deserved a government that addressed despair and economic hardship.

His campaign has noticeably shifted from earlier positions such as defunding the police. In his CBS2 interview, Mamdani acknowledged that some of his prior statements were out of line with his current platform, saying they were “out of step with the campaign that we are running.”

Criticism From Political Figures

During the same CBS2 appearance, Mamdani turned his criticism toward independent mayoral candidate Andrew Cuomo. He claimed the former governor was more focused on tweets from 2020 than his 2025 campaign platform, accusing Cuomo of debating a “mythical version” of him.

Cuomo, however, dismissed Mamdani as a social media creation, describing him as “a mythical creation — just a series of tweets and TikToks.” He added that if Mamdani’s past statements could not be trusted, then his current promises were equally questionable.

Meanwhile, Ken Frydman, a veteran Democratic political strategist, argued that Mamdani has not offered realistic strategies to implement his socialist proposals. Frydman described the candidate’s agenda as “sweet nothings to the yearning, young masses.”

Policy Proposals Lack Specifics

Mamdani has floated ambitious initiatives, including a $10 billion agenda to expand social services. Yet he struggled to explain where cuts would come from, instead suggesting higher taxes on profitable corporations.

One notable idea is his proposed $1 billion Department of Community Safety, which would focus on mental health emergency responses rather than traditional policing. He has also consistently voiced opposition to the NYPD’s Strategic Response Group, especially in relation to managing protests.

On the issue of protests, Mamdani emphasized protecting First Amendment rights. He said New York City had a proud tradition of demonstrations that should be safeguarded, but critics worry his stance tolerates too much disruption. Nicole Gelinas of the Manhattan Institute cautioned that excessive leniency could lead to chaos.

Charm Versus Governance

Mamdani’s history of anti-police rhetoric on social media has resurfaced as part of the debate, including posts opposing the NYPD’s involvement in domestic violence calls. This background has fueled skepticism about his ability to balance public safety with civil liberties if elected mayor.

Political insiders note that his charisma and outsider appeal once energized younger voters, but as the election approaches, voters are increasingly demanding concrete solutions. A longtime Democratic operative remarked, “A mayor cannot run the city on rhetoric.”

Others believe Mamdani’s charm is losing its impact as the campaign shifts from slogans to the realities of governance. “He is about to find out charisma and charm are not answers,” another strategist said.

Supporters Defend His Approach

Despite the criticism, Mamdani’s campaign team has defended his openness and vision. Campaign representative Dora Pekec said Mamdani remains willing to engage with anyone about his ideas for a safer, more affordable New York City.

Supporters argue that his commitment to working people sets him apart from rivals more focused on traditional politics. They also contend that his willingness to rethink prior positions shows growth and adaptability.

As the election nears, Mamdani’s challenge will be to prove that his ideas can translate into actionable policies. Whether his responses continue to be viewed as evasive or evolve into detailed plans may determine his path to City Hall.