Mamdani in Fox News interview calls out Adams, Cuomo, tells Trump he doesn't need his help

New York City Democratic mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani on Wednesday, in his first Fox News Channel interview, called out outgoing Mayor Eric Adams and independent challenger Andrew Cuomo, while also saying he does not need President Trump's help with his political career.

During the interview, Mamdani looked into the camera and said he wouldn’t govern like Adams or Cuomo, a Democrat and former New York governor.

"Andrew, you had your time to lead this state," he said, claiming that Cuomo was using his position for self-promotion. 

Mamdani spoke before the mayoral race's first debate, Wednesday night, with him, Cuomo and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa, according to FOX 5 NY.

The second and final debate before Election Day will be on Oct. 22. Election Day is Nov. 4. 

Earlier this month, a Quinnipiac University poll found Mamdani leading the race with 46% support among likely voters. Cuomo is in second with 33% and Curtis Sliwa at 15%.

When asked what qualifies him for the job despite being just 33 years old, Mamdani redirected his answer to address Trump, saying, "He may be watching, and I just want to speak directly to the president."

I will not be a mayor like Mayor Adams who will call you to figure out how to stay out of jail. I won't be a disgraced governor who will call you to ask how to win this election. I can do those things on my own," Mamdani said, looking into the camera.

"I will, however, be a mayor who's ready to speak at any time to lower the cost of living," he continued.

Regarding the peace deal in the Middle East, Mamdani said it was "too early" to give Trump credit, but added that he would be willing to do so if the peace efforts last.

He said he was "thankful and hopeful" that the recent ceasefire would hold, but added his concern over reports of Palestinian deaths despite the truce.

When asked about his prior statement suggesting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu be arrested, Mamdani said he would "exhaust every legal option" available if necessary.

He then changed the conversation, saying his main focus is New York City, and transforming what he calls "the most expensive city in America."

Mamdani also apologized to the New York Police Department officers, but didn't say he was sorry for calling them "racist" and "a major threat to public safety."

"I’ll apologize to police officers right here, because this is the apology I’ve shared with many rank-and-file officers," Mamdani said.

Trump on Tuesday called Mamdani "a communist."

He called Mamdani’s potential election win "a fluke," while also saying Mamdani’s rivals, Cuomo and Sliwa, were "a lot of failed people."

"He’s not a socialist, he’s a communist," Trump continued. "There’s a big difference. He’s down and dirty; he’s a communist."