Mamdani and Menin Clash Over NYC Budget

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and City Council Speaker Julie Menin remain at odds over the city's budget, with tensions escalating as they present competing proposals. The mayor insists he needs approval from Albany to tax the wealthy and corporations to close his budget gap, threatening to raise property taxes if necessary.

Menin opposes new taxes, arguing that they would disproportionately harm Black communities and small businesses. She took her opposition to Mamdani's proposed 9.5% property tax hike to the National Action Network Convention on Wednesday, stating, 'We have said a hard no to raising property taxes.' Menin proposes saving $860 million by not budgeting for unfilled positions.

Mamdani, who campaigned on a promise to tax the rich, argues that Menin's savings plan would lead to service cuts. He stated, 'We will never allow a New Yorker to have to go to sleep wondering whether those kinds of services will be in doubt the next morning.' The mayor maintains that raising taxes is a path of last resort and continues to pursue increased taxation on wealthy individuals and corporations.

As Mamdani approaches his 100-day mark, a new poll shows mixed approval ratings for his performance. According to a Marist Poll published Wednesday, 48% of New Yorkers approve of the job he is doing, while 30% disapprove and 23% are unsure. This places Mamdani's approval rating lower than that of his predecessor, Eric Adams, who had a 61% approval rating during his first 100 days.

The poll also reveals that Mamdani is perceived as likeable, hardworking, and caring by many residents. However, he faces criticism for not fulfilling campaign promises such as making city buses free. Conservatives have been quick to react online, with some accusing the mayor of failing to deliver on his pledges. Despite this backlash, Mamdani's office maintains that he remains committed to delivering fast and free buses by the end of his term.

In a new development, Mayor Mamdani unveiled his 'Preliminary Citywide Racial Equity Plan' on Monday, which aims to address systemic inequities in areas like housing, education, and income. The plan quickly drew pushback from conservatives online and skepticism from the Department of Justice (DOJ), with one top official saying she will 'review' the move. Mamdani's office explained that the report shows racial disparities across New York City and aims to establish a new framework for measuring affordability, understanding inequity, and planning for a more equitable future.

The plan outlines over 200 agency-level goals, more than 800 proposed strategies, and roughly 600 performance indicators intended to track progress over time. It cites significant gaps in median net worth between white and Black households and suggests that addressing these gaps requires a collective effort.

In his first 100 days in office, Mayor Zohran Mamdani has governed with a star power unusual in politics. Crowds of supporters show up to his news conferences, and celebrities help him promote his agenda. He has been able to notch a few notable early wins and reach a detente with President Trump.

Mamdani's team has moved to highlight the administration’s commitment to everyday responsibilities such as picking up trash, plowing snow, and filling potholes. The 34-year-old mayor has leaned on his knack for viral content creation to drive interest and awareness of government programs. He recruited Cardi B to help judge a jingle contest for his child-care program and used slick social media videos to recruit new snow shovelers.

Despite his star power, Mamdani faces criticism from some who view his past criticisms of the police department and Israel as major problems. However, many New Yorkers express hope and optimism about his leadership. Outside City Hall, people frequently stop for selfies with the mayor, and crowds gather to watch his announcements.

Mamdani has made progress on his ambitious agenda over the first 100 days, including a plan for free universal child care. However, other major promises such as making MTA buses fast and free have stalled, though there has been some progress on pilot programs for one line in each borough. A rent freeze on rent-stabilized apartments is still in the works, with the Rent Guidelines Board seeing conflicting reports on profits and losses ahead of its upcoming decision in June.

Mamdani's approach to governance includes showman moments, such as filling potholes and staging announcements in unusual places. For instance, he stood in front of the Prospect Park Zoo's red panda enclosure to announce a junk fees settlement with the HungryPanda delivery app. His staff ensured that the normally-nocturnal red pandas were present for everyone to see.

During his 100th day in office, Mamdani awarded winners of his 'Municipal Madness' contest aimed at cleaning up illegal dumping in the Soundview section of the Bronx. The event featured cheerleaders and the Department of Sanitation mascot, adding to the showman-like atmosphere.