Cuomo’s Campaign Removes Controversial Ad

A political advertisement that humorously portrayed criminals backing Zoran Mamdani, the democratic socialist mayoral candidate, has been retracted by Cuomo’s campaign.

The ad was shared publicly on Wednesday night, coinciding with the close of the last mayoral debate, but it was swiftly taken down. According to the New York Times, a spokesperson, Rich Azzopardi, explained that the post was made “in error” and “was not yet completed.”

Despite its removal, versions of the two-minute AI-generated video have circulated widely on social media, amassing over 2.5 million views on one notable post.

The video features criminals expressing their enthusiasm for Mamdani’s policies, including those targeting domestic abusers, prostitutes, drug dealers, and drunk drivers.

Common Cause New York criticized the ad, labeling it “an offensive and shocking attempt to incite fear.” They also suggested that the ad’s lack of disclosure regarding its AI origins could infringe state election laws.

One character in the ad claims, “With plans to decriminalize all drugs, Mamdani will create jobs for drug dealers!” Another character resembling a homeless person says, “Instead of helping homeless people get off the streets and into the mental health facilities they need, he wants us to provide safe injection sites and let them sleep in subway cars!”

A burly character in a tank top states, “When a woman is experiencing domestic violence, she finally doesn’t have to deal with pesky cops to arrest her abuser, and social workers can help with the situation.” Meanwhile, a character depicting a pimp dismisses the statistics linking prostitution legalization to an increase in sex trafficking, saying, “Who cares?” Lastly, a white woman, stumbling out of her car post-accident, asserts, “There can be no safety without equality!”

In an echo of the ad’s sentiment, a character proclaims, “I am a criminal to Zoran Mamdani!”

In the final mayoral debate, Cuomo criticized Mamdani for a lack of experience, saying, “You haven’t accomplished anything!”

Despite the controversy, the ad garnered some praise on social media. Users reacted positively, with one calling it “probably the most sincere political ad of the season.” Another said, “Truth in advertising. I love this ad. I can watch it over and over again.” Yet, others condemned it as “racist and hateful.”