Zohran Mamdani made a lot of big promises. But most of his agenda will never happen. Here’s why…

Defunding the Police — Doubtful 

Mamdani has repeatedly called for defunding the police. In this year’s election, he changed his tune. 

No wonder – he wanted to get elected! 

Once he’s sworn in, Mamdani could attempt to cut the police budget anyway. But those budgets have to be approved by the City Council.

Most of the City Council does not support defunding the police. Especially given the COVID crime spike, cutting the police risks their seat. 

Mamdani’s election may also lead President Trump to deploy the National Guard to New York City. Ironically, this could result in more police than ever.

I hope President Trump comes through! 

Rent Freeze — Maybe 

Mamdani has promised to freeze the rent. But this only applies to rent-stabilized units. 

What’s more, he cannot freeze rents by decree. The Rent Guidelines Board must approve it. 

The mayor does have the power to appoint the Rent Guidelines Board. So a rent freeze on rent-stabilized units may be feasible.

But it won’t help most New Yorkers, who don’t have a rent stabilized unit. 

If the rents are too low to maintain the unit, the landlord may take the apartment off the market. If units are taken off the market, rents will increase.

Tax Increases — Good Luck

Mamdani has pledged to increase taxes on millionaires and businesses. But the mayor does not have the authority to raise taxes.

Any new taxes have to be approved by New York State. Governor Kathy Hochul has said she’s against new taxes.

Without this new tax revenue, many of Mamdani’s other plans become difficult or impossible. No new tax revenue means no money for free buses or government-run grocery stores.

Wrap-Up

Celebrating his election victory last night, Mamdani looked like he was on top of the world. But when he’s sworn in on January 1st, reality will set in.

He’ll simply be one politician out of many in New York State. Most of his pie-in-the-sky promises will not happen. 

He simply does not have the power or support to push them through.

As far as I’m concerned, that’s wonderful news! Raising taxes on an already overtaxed city makes no sense. Getting rid of the police that keep people safe makes even less.

Score one for checks and balances. 

More on politics: 

As Cuba Starves, Elites Funnel Money Out

Goodbye Charlie

Three Priorities for the Trump Administration

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