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In a lively mayoral debate, former Governor Andrew Cuomo found himself the primary target of criticism from his rivals, underscoring his apparent front-runner status in the race. While Cuomo remains the candidate to beat, his opponents wasted no time launching pointed attacks regarding his past conduct and political integrity.

The absence of current Mayor Eric Adams was palpable, as he has chosen to run on a third-party line for the upcoming general election rather than competing in the primary. Mayor Adams dismissed the debate, asserting that he was "running the city" and not interested in the candidates "yelling over themselves." To make his point clearer, Adams emphasized on a separate television segment that he "had the crown" the other candidates were vying for.

City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams initially maintained a low profile but seized a critical moment by challenging Cuomo for his lack of political regret. Meanwhile, several candidates turned public transport into a talking point, showcasing their support for the everyday New Yorker. State Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani, Comptroller Brad Lander, and state Sen. Zellnor Myrie all shared their experiences using the subway to reach the debate. However, businessperson Whitney Tilson opted for a more unique approach by riding his bike, making a historical claim in the process.

Candidate debates frequently tackled public safety issues, particularly focusing on Cuomo's controversial history. Former Assemblymember Michael Blake led an aggressive charge, condemning Cuomo for his sexual harassment allegations and calling him a significant "threat to public safety." Adding fuel to the fire, Comptroller Brad Lander accused Cuomo of "lying to Congress" and perpetuating falsehoods about Covid deaths in nursing homes to secure a lucrative book deal. Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani also joined the fray, lambasting Cuomo over his connections with "corrupt Trump billionaires."

Cuomo, not one to shy away, fired back at his critics on stage. He labeled Lander corrupt due to perceived conflicts of interest involving his wife's nonprofit work and took shots at several candidates, particularly Mamdani, for their alignment with the "defund the police" movement.

As the debate unfolded, it became clear that Cuomo aimed to position himself as the moderate alternative to a field he painted as far too left-wing for New York City. Ironically, his portrayal by major critics, including Mayor Adams and the New York Post editorial board, leans in the opposite direction, casting Cuomo as a radical leftist due to his role in 2019 bail reforms.

The evening's discussions often circled back to public safety, with candidates pointing fingers over their stances on policing. Cuomo took a hardline stance, describing the city as plagued by criminals and citing New Yorkers' "sixth sense" alerting them to danger whenever they walk outside.

With tensions high and accusations flying, the debate highlighted the contentious road ahead in New York City's mayoral race.