New York City’s final mayoral debate turned into a fierce showdown, underscoring the high stakes for all candidates as the election looms just weeks away. The three contenders, each with their own unique challenges and controversies, moved quickly beyond policy discussions. Instead, they engaged in a free-for-all of personal attacks and critical barbs, revealing the raw emotions of a campaign nearing its climax.

Socialist candidate Zohran Mamdani has established himself as the frontrunner, but not without drawing the ire of his opponents. Independent candidate Andrew Cuomo went on the offensive, criticizing Mamdani’s leadership experience and predicting that President Donald Trump would easily dismantle him if he were to take office. Cuomo remarked, “He thinks he’s a kid and he’s going to knock him on his tuchas,” directly questioning Mamdani’s readiness for the role.

Mamdani countered with a potent accusation, labeling Cuomo as “Donald Trump’s puppet.” He pointed out the irony of Cuomo’s attacks, adding that Trump publicly favors Cuomo for the mayoralty, not for the betterment of the city, but for his own agenda. This exchange set the tone for a debate marked by hostility and pointed confrontations.

The night brought forth a swift and fierce retort from Republican Curtis Sliwa, who landed key blows on Cuomo’s controversial departure from the governorship. “You fled from being impeached by the Democrats,” he asserted, confronting Cuomo with the facts surrounding his resignation and adding to the tension already simmering in the room.

As the debate wore on, Cuomo intensified his attacks on Mamdani’s qualifications. He criticized Mamdani’s attendance in the Assembly, questioning his commitment and ability to effectively govern, declaring, “You literally never proposed the bill on anything that you’re not talking about in your campaign.” This pointed criticism culminated in a moment of outrage, with Cuomo exclaiming, “Shame on you!” Such accusations further fueled the volatility of the debate, casting Mamdani in a defensive light.

Mamdani, however, remained unfazed, retorting with a sly smile, “It is always a pleasure to hear Andrew Cuomo create his own facts.” He not only defended his record but also seized on Cuomo’s past leadership. “Who was leading the state? It was you!” he shot back, reminding the audience of Cuomo’s decade-long governorship that he claimed was detrimental to the city.

As the candidates pressed Mamdani on his position regarding controversial housing initiatives, chaos unfolded on the stage. Sliwa and Cuomo challenged him relentlessly, creating a scene mixed with mockery and impatience. Cuomo even resorted to theatrics, likening Mamdani’s refusal to answer to a “TikTok dance,” earning a significant laugh from the audience. Yet, his mockery highlighted a serious underlying frustration: Mamdani’s evasiveness on key issues.

The topic of Israel emerged as another serious flashpoint. Sliwa, citing personal ties to the Jewish community, confronted Mamdani over his previously controversial statements. Claiming that Mamdani’s rhetoric instilled fear in community members, Sliwa insisted, “You’ve got a lot of explaining to do.” In response, Mamdani sought to clarify his stance, vehemently denying any support for global jihad and stressing his commitment to safety for all New Yorkers. This exchange underscored the deep divisions and sensitivities regarding anti-Semitism, suggesting that Mamdani’s political identity is being scrutinized through a lens of fear and distrust.

The candidates further escalated tensions with personal allegations, each seeking to undermine the other’s credibility. Cuomo challenged Mamdani on his ties to Uganda and reprimanded him for not supporting boycotts against a government known for its oppressive laws against homosexuality. The back-and-forth revealed deep ideological divides, with Mamdani acknowledging a photo taken with a Ugandan official linked to human rights abuses yet affirming his commitment to human rights causes.

Mamdani effectively attempted to turn the tables on Cuomo, bringing past grievances to the forefront. Highlighting Cuomo’s controversial actions during his governorship, he claimed, “We experienced you taking a $5 million book deal while you sent seniors to their deaths in nursing homes.” Such a statement resonated with those concerned about Cuomo’s legacy, illustrating the broader narrative of accountability and experience that pervaded the debate.

Ultimately, the final mayoral debate showcased not only a clash of personalities but also a microcosm of the city’s pressing challenges. Each candidate presented their fight for relevance amidst heated allegations and no-holds-barred attacks. In this chaotic climate, New Yorkers are left to discern which candidate truly represents their values and aspirations as they prepare to head to the polls.