Cuomo Criticizes Mayoral Opponent Mamdani Over Rent-Controlled Apartment

Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, now running as an independent in the New York City mayoral race, has launched a series of high-profile attacks against his opponent, Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani, over Mamdani's occupancy of a rent-stabilized apartment in Astoria. Cuomo argues that Mamdani, who earns $142,000 a year and is married to a wealthy woman, is abusing the affordable housing system meant for lower-income residents, and has called for legislation—dubbed 'Zohran’s Law'—that would prevent affluent individuals from residing in rent-controlled apartments. Cuomo's criticism, amplified across social media and widely reported, accuses Mamdani of hypocrisy and urges him to vacate the apartment for a needy family, while highlighting Mamdani's affluent background and property holdings. The controversy has intensified the already combative tone of the mayoral race, with Cuomo attempting to position himself as a champion of housing fairness amid broader concerns over New York City's affordability crisis. Mamdani’s campaign counters that he rented the apartment when his income was significantly lower, and frames Cuomo as representing establishment interests. The mayoral contest remains closely watched, with incumbent Eric Adams and Republican Curtis Sliwa also in the race.