Zoran Mamdani, a candidate from the Democratic Socialists of America for the Los Angeles City Council, had an intense moment during a live radio interview, where he confronted a reporter while struggling to answer fundamental questions regarding governance in Los Angeles.
This heated exchange took place during an interview on KNX News, where mayoral hopeful Lei Huang found herself in a challenging interaction with seasoned City Hall reporter Craig Feigner. As Feigner pressed her on significant issues like taxes and public safety, Huang’s agitation became increasingly apparent.
The argument ignited quickly when Huang promoted the “Overpaid CEO Tax,” a proposed ballot measure aimed at significantly raising taxes on high-earning corporate executives to help fund housing initiatives.
“These CEO taxes will help us out,” Huang stated, asserting that funds from wealthy executives should directly contribute to the urgent housing needs in Los Angeles.
Feigner sought clarification, asking, “How do you plan to make this work? It’s quite a hefty price tag. Where’s our current funding going?”
Huang claimed that funding would be allocated to temporary solutions, mentioning law enforcement as one example.
“The Los Angeles Police Department has increased its workforce significantly without proper authorization from the city,” she responded.
Feigner interjected, pointing out that the LAPD had not actually doubled in size.
City officials are currently weighing the option of adding around 240 new staff, though specifics are still unclear.
Despite this, Huang remained steadfast, accusing local leaders of being dishonest and suggesting there’s a lack of accountability, all while acknowledging the divided powers within City Hall’s leadership structure.
The discussion intensified when Feigner probed Huang’s qualifications for running such a massive city.
“I am a neighbor, a mother, and a community organizer in Los Angeles,” Huang replied. “I’ve spent over a decade organizing alongside community members. That’s what counts on my resume.”
Feigner pointed out the magnitude of the role, mentioning the city’s budget is around $13 billion, with departments like the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power managing billions in cash flow.
“It’s challenging to step into this when your experience is relatively limited,” Feigner remarked. “How will you handle it?”
Her response? “I’ll manage it. I’m eager to begin,” she replied, displaying a sense of confidence.
Huang drew a parallel between herself and New York City’s Mayor Mamdani while mistakenly suggesting he didn’t have prior governing experience. Feigner quickly corrected her, noting Mamdani’s role as a state legislator.
“This is the typical pushback from media like you,” Huang retorted, interrupting him.
Feigner calmly pointed out that voters expect scrutiny from those running for office, which is a key part of the process.
The interview concluded awkwardly, with Huang mistakenly stating her age, first claiming to be 42 before correcting herself to 43, leaving the segment without far-reaching conclusions.
Earlier in the year, Huang, who is facing off against Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass in the upcoming Democratic primary, had announced her campaign.
