New York City — The final NYC mayoral debate before Election Day turned into a heated, no-holds-barred showdown on Wednesday night, as the three major candidates clashed over everything from housing and policing to Israel and education.

Taking the stage were Democratic Socialist Zohran Mamdani, Independent Andrew Cuomo, and Republican Curtis Sliwa, each aiming to make a lasting impression before voters head to the polls on November 4.

The debate — hosted by Spectrum NY1 — was marked by constant interruptions, sharp one-liners, and fiery exchanges, offering a glimpse into the candidates’ contrasting styles and priorities.

Here are the five most explosive moments that stood out:

1. Cuomo’s “Tuckus” Remark Goes Viral
   When asked about working with President Trump, Andrew Cuomo quipped that Trump would “knock Zohran Mamdani on his tuckus” if he became mayor, sparking laughter and criticism alike.
2. Mamdani’s Education “Word Salad”
   Pressed for specifics on education reform, Mamdani delivered a meandering answer that shifted from schools to housing and parks — prompting Cuomo to accuse him of “dodging the real issues.”
3. Israel Flashpoint
   The debate hit a boiling point when Cuomo challenged Mamdani’s anti-Israel stance, sarcastically asking, “You are the savior of Jewish people?” — drawing audible gasps from the audience.
4. Sliwa’s Policing Pitch
   GOP nominee Curtis Sliwa, donning his trademark red beret, vowed to “restore law and order” and accused both rivals of being soft on crime, earning cheers from some attendees.
5. Crossfire Chaos
   Multiple moments saw all three candidates talking over one another, forcing moderators to intervene. The tension underscored how much was at stake just days before voters decide the city’s next mayor.

The hour-long debate wrapped up with each candidate making a final pitch to New Yorkers, urging them to “choose the future of the city” — but the lingering takeaway was clear: this race remains deeply divided and intensely personal.