Today, Explained Five boroughs. One mayor. Mad drama.
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Jun 18, 2025 
Join Brian Lehrer, a seasoned host from New York Public Radio, and David Friedlander, a political features writer for New York Magazine, as they dissect the NYC mayoral race. The duo navigates the complexities of candidates like Andrew Cuomo and Zohran Mamdani, emphasizing the impact of ranked choice voting. They delve into contrasting campaign strategies, revealing how personal controversies and governance experience shape voter perceptions. Their insights reflect broader national trends within the Democratic Party, highlighting the struggle to engage both progressive and traditional voters.
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Voter Ranking Surprises in NYC Race
- Brian Lehrer shared that callers often rank both Cuomo and Mamdani, showing unusual voter openness in this mayoral race.
- Voters appreciate Mamdani for his progressive policies but still consider Cuomo a viable fallback.
Mamdani as Young Progressive Force
- Zohran Mamdani, a young progressive, is likened to Bernie Sanders with strong socialist policies like rent freezes and free transit.
- He contrasts sharply with Cuomo's establishment background and aims to energize voters with bold reforms.
Cuomo's Experienced but Controversial Appeal
- Andrew Cuomo draws on his family legacy and experience but carries the baggage of his past scandals.
- He emphasizes competence and law and order to appeal to the city's anxiety and promise stabilization.