Zohran Mamdani’s first big interview after winning NYC’s mayoral race is already a disaster.
Pressed by George Stephanopoulos on ABC about how he plans to “Trump-proof” his city, Mamdani went full socialist:
Mamdani: “I think you have to raise taxes on the top 1% of New Yorkers — New Yorkers who make more than a million dollars a year.”
“You raise taxes on them 2%, and increase the corporate tax of New York State to match New Jersey — from 7.25% to 11.5%. These things together raise about $9 billion, which more than pays for our economic agenda and also starts to Trump-proof our city.”
Stephanopoulos pushed back:
“Are you worried that could drive a lot of job creators out of New York?”
Mamdani doubled down:
“What I’ve heard from business leaders is that the affordability crisis is affecting their ability to attract and retain talent… The city’s inability to provide childcare means families are paying $22,500 a year. It’s time for city government to step up.”
Then Stephanopoulos hit him with reality:
“That kind of tax increase will require the state — including Governor Hochul. Is she on board?”
Mamdani insisted:
“I’m proud to have Governor Hochul’s endorsement and the endorsement of our agenda… If there are other ways to raise these funds, the most important thing is that we fund this agenda.”
Problem: The city can’t raise income taxes without state approval, and Hochul has repeatedly said she won’t raise taxes on the wealthy.
Translation: Mamdani’s “Trump-proof” plan is already falling apart — less than 24 hours after his election.