Mamdani's campaign focuses on affordability issues, proposing initiatives such as free city buses, subsidized childcare, and increased taxes on the wealthy to address the city's economic challenges.

The debate also touched on housing policies, with most candidates supporting a rent freeze, although Cuomo and Whitney Tilson opposed this measure.

Candidates expressed strong support for New York City's sanctuary laws, vowing to protect immigrant rights amid ongoing challenges from the federal government.

Cuomo and Tilson criticized Mamdani's proposals as unrealistic, with Tilson labeling them as 'pie-in-sky promises'.

During the final Democratic mayoral primary debate held on June 12, 2025, Andrew Cuomo and Zohran Mamdani engaged in a heated exchange over age, experience, and allegations of sexual harassment against Cuomo.

Brad Lander, the NYC Comptroller, criticized Cuomo's past comments, particularly his use of the term 'illegal immigrants', prompting Cuomo to adopt the more politically correct term 'undocumented'.

Mamdani countered Cuomo's attacks by emphasizing Cuomo's controversial history and mispronouncing his name, while asserting his own integrity.

In response to questions about policing, Mamdani clarified that he does not support defunding the NYPD but advocates for reallocating resources to enhance public safety.

Mamdani faced skepticism from critics, including Lander and City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, who questioned his qualifications and experience.

The event garnered significant online attention, with reactions from former Mayor Bill de Blasio and supporters rallying outside the venue prior to the debate.

Regardless of the primary outcome, both Mamdani and Cuomo may continue their political rivalry in the general election.

The debate was marked by moments of tension, with candidates frequently interrupting each other as they defended their positions.