NYC Mayoral Candidate Mamdani Plans $65M for Trans Medical Care

Zohran Mamdani, a 33-year-old Democratic Socialist candidate for New York City mayor, has surged in the Democratic primary, challenging former Governor Andrew Cuomo. Mamdani proposes a $65 million taxpayer-funded plan to expand transgender medical care, including for minors, directing $57 million to public hospitals and clinics and $8 million for additional services, aiming to counteract restrictions from the Trump administration. He advocates for other progressive measures such as free childcare, subsidized grocery stores, free public transit, and a new public safety department, funded by raising corporate taxes and a flat tax on the wealthy. Mamdani has pledged to investigate and hold accountable private medical institutions that deny gender-affirming care to transgender youth, emphasizing adherence to city and state laws. His platform also includes protections for LGBTQIA+ New Yorkers and a call for an Office of LGBTQIA+ Affairs at City Hall. Critics warn his agenda represents a radical shift toward socialist policies in New York City, with concerns about fiscal sustainability and public safety.