NYC Mayoral Candidate Mamdani Remains Silent on Controversial Housing Ballot Measures

New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani has yet to reveal his position on three housing-related proposals appearing on the back of the ballot, even as early voting approaches. The measures, introduced by a commission convened by outgoing Mayor Eric Adams, would streamline approval for certain housing developments and, in some cases, limit the City Council’s role in the process.

Mamdani, the Democratic nominee, addressed labor union members Friday at a Local 32BJ SEIU event, focusing on worker issues such as wages and benefits, but did not comment on the ballot items. Campaign spokeswoman Dora Pekec stated that Mamdani remains undecided and is continuing discussions with unions and other stakeholders.

His rivals have taken clear stances: former Governor Andrew Cuomo supports all three proposals, while Republican Curtis Sliwa opposes them. Cuomo argues the changes would allow development projects to proceed more efficiently, whereas Sliwa warns that they could give excessive power to the mayor’s office at the expense of community input.

The City Council has actively campaigned against the proposals, using public resources to warn residents that the measures could reduce affordability and increase gentrification. Council members from across the political spectrum have united in opposition, citing concerns that the changes would weaken labor agreements and diminish community oversight.

Union leaders, including 32BJ and the Hotel and Gaming Trades Council, have voiced strong resistance to the proposals, emphasizing the potential impact on workers’ rights and labor negotiations. Meanwhile, pro-housing advocates argue that the Council’s mailers constitute improper electioneering and have filed complaints with the city’s Department of Investigation.

As the election nears, Mamdani faces the challenge of balancing his ambition to construct 200,000 units of union-built affordable housing with maintaining labor support and a cooperative relationship with the City Council.