Zohran Mamdani Defends Taxing ‘Whiter Neighborhoods’ At Higher Rates, Says It Isn’t ‘Driven By Race’

New York State Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani, the presumptive Democratic nominee for New York City mayor, defended his plan Sunday to increase taxes on wealthier neighborhoods — described on his campaign website as “richer and whiter” areas — saying the move is about fairness in the property tax system, not race.

In an interview with Meet the Press, Mamdani explained that his proposal targets neighborhoods currently under-taxed compared to others, aiming to create a more equitable tax structure. He said this assessment is based on economic data and not motivated by racial considerations. (RELATED: Zohran Mamdani Ducks And Weaves When Asked To Condemn Term Calling For Killing Jews)

“It is not driven by race. It’s more of an assessment of what neighborhoods are being under taxed versus over taxed,” Mamdani stated. “The focus here is to actually ensure a fair property tax system.”

He also doubled down on his belief that billionaires should not exist, citing growing inequality as a key issue. “I don’t think that we should have billionaires because, frankly, it is so much money in a moment of such inequality,” Mamdani said. He added that despite this, he plans to work with all New Yorkers, including billionaires, to build a fairer city.

Zohran Mamdani:

“I don’t think that we should have billionaires.”

Do you agree? Is there a point in being a billionaire besides for power? pic.twitter.com/zEyE0yHHp1

— Brian Krassenstein (@krassenstein) June 29, 2025

Mamdani proposed raising taxes on the top 1% of earners in New York City by an additional 2%, targeting those making over $1 million annually, to fund expanded rent stabilization, free bus service, and city-owned grocery stores.