Cuomo Urges Mamdani to Vacate Rent-Stabilized Astoria Apartment

Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has publicly criticized Democratic socialist Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani, a frontrunner in the New York City mayoral race, for residing in a rent-stabilized apartment in Astoria, Queens, despite Mamdani's and his wife's combined wealth and high-profile lifestyle. Cuomo argued that Mamdani, who earns $142,000 plus additional income from his wife, should vacate the $2,300-a-month apartment to make room for low-income families amid a historic housing affordability crisis in New York City. Cuomo highlighted Mamdani's wealthy background, including lavish weddings across three continents and property ownership in Uganda, and accused him of depriving homeless New Yorkers of affordable housing. Mamdani has openly discussed his rent payments and living situation, stating he found the apartment when he earned significantly less. Cuomo's call for Mamdani to move out was shared widely on social media, sparking debate about the responsibilities of political leaders during the city's housing crisis. The controversy underscores tensions in the mayoral race over housing policies and socioeconomic equity in New York City.