Critics Challenge NYC Mayor’s Property Database Release

Influential podcaster and NYU professor Scott Galloway criticized New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s release of a public database that lists property owners subject to a proposed pied-à-terre tax. Galloway argued on the “Pivot” podcast that the database endangers landowners.

Mayor Mamdani’s administration disclosed a searchable list identifying wealthy property owners whose non-primary homes could face taxation. Critics worry this could lead to harassment and safety issues. The city’s Department of Finance published this list as required by state law.

Galloway expressed concern, saying, “I’ve been doxed.” He emphasized that the list serves as a “wanted poster” for property owners and questioned the intent behind it. “Why is he doing this?” Galloway asked, referring to Mamdani.

Galloway also addressed past remarks from Mamdani about arresting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. These actions, he claimed, confirm conservative concerns about progressive taxation being painted as persecution.

On the podcast, Galloway argued that New York should not demonize success, saying, “The reason people move to New York is they think, ‘I want to be successful.'”

Approximately 95% of the people on the list are unlikely to face the tax, Galloway noted. He questioned the value of publishing such information without consent.

The Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY) also voiced concerns, noting inaccuracies in notifications sent to property owners. President James Whelan criticized the tax, highlighting the city’s unpreparedness for its implementation.

Mamdani’s office clarified that property tax rolls are routinely published and not unique to this tax. City officials stated that these lists are mandated by state law and have been made public for many years. The new database is part of standard procedure, officials added.

Governor Kathy Hochul and others emphasized that this release is neither novel nor isolated, pointing out that similar data exists in other New York cities.

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