The meeting featured Queens Assemblyman and Democratic mayoral candidate Zoran Mamdani discussing his campaign platform and responding to criticisms after participating in the first Democratic mayoral primary debate.
Key topics included Mamdani’s economic agenda, tax policy, police funding, and approach to federal relations.
The discussion also touched on his experience, endorsements, and personal interests.
Action Items
None noted.
Candidate Economic Platform and Funding
Mamdani’s platform includes free buses, universal child care, city-run grocery stores, and a rent freeze.
Plans to fund these initiatives by increasing taxes on the top 1% of earners and the most profitable corporations, asserting that taxing entities doing business in New York would raise $55 billion.
Argued that corporate tax applies regardless of company headquarters, so relocation would not exempt companies.
Cited high living costs in NYC as a challenge for corporate recruitment/retention, suggesting that his plan would address affordability for workers.
Top 1% (earning $1 million or more) would see a 2% tax increase.
Feasibility and Legislative Experience
Acknowledged skepticism about passing tax increases, referencing resistance from the governor but highlighted his prior success in increasing funding for NYC schools despite opposition.
Noted his leadership in securing the largest MTA investment in recent Albany history, implementing a free bus route pilot in each borough.
Addressed criticisms of lack of experience, referencing successful budget negotiations over bill sponsorship.
Policing and Safety Policy
Clarified position on police funding, stating he will not defund the police and will maintain current force numbers.
Emphasized need for police focus on crime rather than social issues and proposed a new Department of Community Safety to handle mental health, homelessness, and gun violence with trained professionals.
Federal Relations and Endorsements
Addressed concerns about handling federal government opposition, highlighting independence from major donors and a broad grassroots donor base.
Announced endorsement by Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, framing it as evidence of his readiness to stand up for New Yorkers.
Israel Policy Stance
Stated support for Israel’s right to exist as a state with equal rights, not explicitly as a Jewish state, expressing discomfort with religious hierarchies in citizenship.
Personal Background
Shared that he enjoys cooking and exploring NYC’s diverse food offerings.
Decisions
Not to defund the police — Mamdani committed to sustaining the current police force, citing their role in public safety and the need for specialized social services to support them.