Mamdani Critiques Cuomo’s Proposed Rent Law
On Monday, Zoran Mamdani, a leading candidate for mayor, criticized Andrew Cuomo’s proposed “Zoran Law,” dismissing it as a trivial gesture.
Mamdani, 33, expressed concern about Cuomo’s proposal, citing her own experience of paying $2,300 a month for an apartment in Astoria, while Cuomo collects a $142,000 salary as a state legislator.
“What do we really know about this proposal? It seems aimed at pushing me out of my home,” said the Queens lawmaker, questioning the true intent behind the policy.
“Much of Cuomo’s political strategy revolves around these minor conflicts. How many lives will he disrupt, just because he’s been challenged by renters in stabilized apartments?” she added.
Cuomo, the former governor, witnessed his political aspirations falter in the Democratic primary, particularly when Mamdani garnered more votes than any other challenger in three decades.
Despite his setback, Cuomo is proceeding with his independent campaign as he intensifies his critiques on social media.
He branded the law as “Zohran’s Law,” attacking Mamdani, who comes from a prominent family in the arts.
“We shouldn’t give stable rent apartments to billionaires,” Cuomo stated on Sunday, insinuating that Mamdani is hoarding housing that could benefit families in need.
He pointedly tweeted, “Last night, a single mother and her children slept in a homeless shelter because you, Congressman Mamdani, occupy her rent-controlled apartment. I’m urging you to move out and return that affordable housing to those who truly need it.”
Currently, rent-stabilized units make up a significant portion of New York City’s housing, with one million such apartments available.
Cuomo’s proposal, targeting tenants who have resided in their apartments since 1971, wouldn’t remove higher-income individuals but would only apply when such units become available. New renters would be restricted based on income, with rent accounting for at least 30% of their earnings.
For example, a $2,500 apartment would only be accessible to those making under $100,000 annually.
A spokesperson for Mamdani criticized Cuomo’s alleged hypocrisy regarding affordable housing.
“Cuomo is the same former governor who granted Elon Musk billions in tax cuts while claiming to care about struggling citizens,” they said. “Mamdani believes the city’s role is to ensure dignity for all, not just cater to wealthy donors.”
Mamdani expressed skepticism about “means tests,” referencing the MTA’s “fair fare” program, which serves only a fraction of eligible low-income New Yorkers.
He highlighted the importance of the free bus pilot program he supports, which boosts ridership among those already qualifying for assistance without needing more affluent individuals to participate.
Mamdani stressed that Cuomo’s decisions led to a cut in rental assistance, contributing to rising homelessness in the city.
“Cuomo’s rhetoric about rent stabilization points to a deeper misconception of my own rental reality. It appears he forgets he has eliminated more affordable housing than he has created,” Mamdani remarked, indicating he has no plans to vacate his home.
“He ignores the consequences of slashing the voucher program, which has been linked to homelessness rates climbing in New York City.”
Mayor Eric Adams, also campaigning independently, took aim at both contenders, stating, “Stable, low-income housing should benefit low-income individuals.”
He continued, “I’m openly discussing how to address the mess Cuomo created back in 2019 when he weakened the standards for housing stability. This issue is a direct result of his actions.”
