NEW YORK — The New York City mayoral debate kicked off with high tensions as former Governor Andrew Cuomo, now an independent candidate, faced off against Democratic front-runner Zohran Mamdani and Republican Curtis Sliwa. Cuomo sought to challenge Mamdani's platform, painting it as extreme while Mamdani criticized Cuomo's leadership during the pandemic and highlighted his own progressive policies. Meanwhile, Sliwa attempted to assert himself amid the rivalry, claiming he wasn't getting enough speaking time and emphasizing his outsider status. The clash showcased differing views on the future of New York City as voters prepare for the election.