Oct 16, 2025, 11:11 PM GMT
Debate kicks off between Mamdani, Cuomo and Sliwa
Democratic frontrunner, Zohran Mamdani, Former Governor Andrew Cuomo, and Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa took to the debate stage on Thursday night.
NYC mayoral debate: Mamdani, Cuomo, Sliwa face off | Live Updates
ByEyewitness News
Last updated: Monday, October 20, 2025 3:11PM GMT
NEW YORK (WABC) -- New York City mayoral candidates Andrew Cuomo and Curtis Sliwa tried to blunt Democratic front-runner Zohran Mamdani's momentum during a contentious first general election debate Thursday.
Cuomo, now running as an independent, spent much of the evening repeating his case that Mamdani lacks the experience to lead America's biggest city and that his agenda is too radically left. Mamdani, a self-described democratic socialist, hit back, criticizing the former governor's response to the COVID-19 pandemic and repeatedly raising sexual harassment allegations that Cuomo denies.
But it was unclear whether any candidate did enough to move the needle during their two hours on stage.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Key Headlines
- Oct 17, 2025, 1:09 AM GMT
- Oct 17, 2025, 12:41 AM GMT
- Oct 16, 2025, 11:35 PM GMT
- Oct 16, 2025, 11:11 PM GMT
- Oct 20, 2025, 3:11 PM GMT
Here's how the debate developed
Oct 20, 2025, 3:11 PM GMT
Mayoral candidates prepare to debate Thursday night
The three candidates hoping to become New York City's next mayor will face off on the debate stage Thursday night.
Independent candidate Andrew Cuomo, Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani, and Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa are all expected to take part.
The debate starts at 7 p.m.
READ MORE: NYC mayoral debate with all 3 candidates, Mamdani, Sliwa, and Cuomo, set to be held
