Mamdani and Cuomo both positioned themselves as capable of standing up to Trump while acknowledging his role in helping secure the Gaza ceasefire. Cuomo accused Mamdani of using slogans that suggested hostility toward Israel, while Mamdani defended his record, saying he stood for every New Yorker — regardless of faith or background.

On security, Mamdani and Cuomo agreed that deploying the National Guard to city streets or subways was unnecessary. Sliwa, however, argued it was the right move to address the growing sense of disorder underground.

When asked how to keep businesses from leaving New York, Mamdani focused on improving quality of life and affordability, promising more investment in housing and transit. Cuomo warned against what he called “creeping socialism,” saying the city must work with private enterprise instead of driving it away.

The debate also touched on policing and affordability — two of the city’s most divisive issues. Mamdani called for a rent freeze and expanded affordable housing, while Cuomo proposed increasing police staffing and wages. Sliwa doubled down on restoring qualified immunity and hiring thousands of new officers.

In a lighter segment, the candidates answered quick-fire questions about bodega breakfast orders, weed purchases, and favorite sports teams — providing brief moments of humor amid the tension.

With early voting set to begin soon, all three candidates now face the challenge of convincing an increasingly divided electorate that they can lead New York through its economic and social crossroads. Mamdani continues to hold a narrow lead in polls, but Cuomo’s comeback bid and Sliwa’s law-and-order message are keeping the race unpredictable.