Mamdani defends New York City DSA co-chair amid nepo-pad controversy

Josephine Stratman, New York Daily News on Aug 24, 2026

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NEW YORK — Mayor Zohran Mamdani on Monday defended New York City-Democratic Socialists of America co-Chair Gustavo Gordillo amid controversy over a $1.5 million home his father bought for him.

Gordillo has faced criticism, largely from the right, over claims the leader’s privileged background makes him a hypocrite as he advocates for the party’s left wing agenda, which includes “tax the rich” among its key talking points.

The controversy was touched off by a New York Post report that Gordillo lives in a spacious Bedford-Stuyvesant dwelling bought by his parents that is now undergoing renovations.

As the DSA gained momentum in New York and across the nation, the party has come under increasing scrutiny. Detractors have looked to find holes in its stated agenda items of taxing the rich, promoting affordability and growing labor power.

Mamdani came under fire during last year’s mayoral campaign over his upper middle-class background. Former Gov. Andrew Cuomo slammed Mamdani during the campaign for his privileged upbringing and for living in a rent-stabilized apartment.

But Mamdani Monday dismissed the idea that someone’s background disqualified them from advocating for a leftist, progressive agenda.

“I think anyone who is focused on delivering a more affordable life for the people of New York City, a fairer life for the people of New York City, and frankly, those of the world should be welcomed into this work,” Mamdani said at a press conference on Monday.

Gordillo issued a statement late Monday noting his “parents came to this country with nothing and worked hard to build a better life.”

“We have been unusually fortunate, but I do not believe that luck should determine whether someone gets to live with security,” he said “My family had opportunities that so many others were denied. That is what motivates me to work toward a world where everyone can afford a home and that is what drew me to democratic socialism: the belief that our economy should work for all of us, not just those who have gotten lucky with the American dream.”

Gordillo was born in Peru and grew up in South Florida. Bed-Stuy, long home to mostly working-class Black families and homeowners, is one of the fastest-gentrifying neighborhoods in the city.

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