5 Takeaways From First Democratic Mayoral Primary Debate: What To Know

NEW YORK CITY — The first 2025 Democratic mayoral primary debate took place Wednesday night.

It was the first time voters saw Andrew Cuomo, Zohran Mamdani, Brad Lander, Adrienne Adams, Scott Stringer, Jessica Ramos, Zellnor Myrie, Michael Blake and Whitney Tilson on the same stage.

The candidates fielded questions about affordability in the city, public safety, education, the future of New York City, and the Trump administration, among other issues brought up.

Here are the important takeaways from Wednesday's debate:

1. Rivals Quick To Call Out Cuomo

A majority of the field went after the former governor, forcing him to address his sexual harassment scandal back in 2021.

“I said at the time that if I offended anyone it was unintentional, but I apologize, and I say that today,” he said.

When asked about the federal investigation over whether he lied to Congress about nursing home deaths during the pandemic, Cuomo insisted that it was politically motivated.

2. Handling of Trump, A Main Topic Of Debate

President Trump’s name was mentioned throughout the debate, and candidates were asked how they would stand up to him.

"I am the last person on this stage that Mr. Trump wants to see as mayor, and that's why I should be the first choice for the people of this city to have as mayor," Cuomo said.

Mamdani said he is "Donald Trump's worst nightmare as a progressive, Muslim immigrant who actually fights for the things I believe in."

Notably, Adrienne Adams said she would follow Attorney General Letitia James’ advice and sue the president every time he oversteps.

3. Cuomo and Mamdani Spar Over Experience

Mamdani went on the offensive, questioning Cuomo’s record, while the former governor called out the senator's limited polticical experience.

“Donald Trump would go through Mr. Mamdani like a hot knife through butter,” Cuomo said. “He’s been in government 27 minutes. He passed three bills.”

In response, Mamdani, said Cuomo could not be trusted in office and to confront President Trump. In addition, he argued Cuomo was shared some of the same donors that are allied with Trump.

“I don’t have to pick up the phone from Bill Ackman or Ken Langone,” he said.

Cuomo contended he would not be influenced by the donations.

Scott Stringer called out the former governor, saying they were examples of “buying the mayoralty.”

4. Blake/Adams Shine During Debate

Michael Blake, a former state assemblyman, had a number of notable moments in the debate, particularly when calling out Cuomo.

“The people who don’t feel safe are young women, mothers and grandmothers around Andrew Cuomo,” he said. “That’s the greatest threat to public safety in New York City.”

Later in the debate, he said Cuomo's "not a man who is actually going to break the corruption in City Hall."

Adrienne Adams also went after Cuomo for saying he had no political regrets during the debate.

“No regrets when it comes to cutting Medicaid or health care?” Adams said. “No regrets when it comes to cutting child care?”

Adams also called the former governor out for some of his decisions during the pandemic, which she said disproportionately harmed Black and Latino New Yorkers.

“Really, no regrets?” she added.

5. How Much Are Candidates Paying In Rent In NYC?

A rapid fire question session revealed how much candidates are paying to live in the city.

Adams said she owned her home and that it was paid off.

Mamdani said he paid $2,300 in rent for a rent-stabilized apartment.

Blake said he pays about $1,800 for his home. Zellnor Myrie said he pays $1,300 for his rent-stabilized apartment. Jessica Ramos said she pays $2,500.

Brad Lander said his mortgage was $3,300. Cuomo revealed he pays $7,800. Whitney Tilson said he owns his home and pays about $5,000 per month in maintenance fees and taxes.

Stringer said he pays $6,400 in rent.