Mayor Mamdani Supports DSA Co-Chair Amid Allegations of Rent Issues

<p>New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani did not distance himself from Gustavo Gordillo, co-chair of the New York City Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), despite allegations that Gordillo failed to pay rent on a Crown Heights apartment while his family spent approximately $1.4 million renovating their townhouse. Critics have pointed out this situation as contradictory to the anti-landlord and rent-abolitionist housing agenda that Gordillo supports.</p><p>Mamdani stated on Sunday that individuals working for a "more affordable life" for New Yorkers should be welcomed into the movement. When asked on Monday if Gordillo should resign or if Mamdani condemned the allegations against him, the mayor reiterated his support for anyone committed to making New York inclusive, but did not directly address the allegations.</p><p>Gordillo, who graduated from an Ivy League school, has worked closely with Mamdani and served on his Economic Development & Workforce Development transition committee. He is currently involved in a pending case in Brooklyn Housing Court, where a former landlord alleges that Gordillo did not pay $5,000 in rent for a $2,500-a-month apartment while renovations were ongoing at his family's townhouse, which they purchased in 2019 for $935,000.</p><p>Rev. Kevin McCall, a pastor in Brooklyn, criticized the DSA for demanding transparency from others while not addressing the allegations against Gordillo. He called for public accountability from DSA leaders regarding Gordillo's situation.</p><p>Neither Mamdani's office, the NYC-DSA, nor Gordillo responded to requests for comment. The housing case against Gordillo remains unresolved, and no judgment has been issued.</p><p>Questions about Gordillo's working-class credentials were raised during a press exchange with Mamdani. The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers reported that Gordillo's electrician apprenticeship was terminated due to a prolonged absence. Additionally, it was reported that Gordillo received a $95,000 annual salary from NYC-DSA without disclosing his apprenticeship termination to members. The renovation of the Bed-Stuy townhouse reportedly involved nonunion contractors and faced a stop-work order from the city due to permit issues.</p>