Libertarian journalist John Stossel has released a video criticizing the socialist policies proposed by Zohran Mamdani, who is a leading candidate in the upcoming New York City mayoral race. The video, which was originally published in August and recently re-released on Stossel’s social media accounts as the election approaches, examines Mamdani’s platform and questions the effectiveness of socialism.
Stossel describes Mamdani as a “proud Democratic Socialist” who is likely to become the next mayor of New York City. He notes that Mamdani received more primary votes than any other candidate in the city’s history. In his commentary, Stossel expresses concern about this trend, stating: “I’m not happy about it. But I am outnumbered.”
The video also references similar developments in Minneapolis, where a socialist mayoral candidate is gaining support. Stossel asks viewers why voters are attracted to these ideas and argues that socialist policies have historically been destructive.
According to Stossel, Mamdani defines socialism as a system where “the state provides whatever is necessary for its people to live a dignified life.” While acknowledging that this sounds appealing, Stossel counters: “But socialism doesn’t bring a dignified life. It never has. It’s wrecked lives wherever it’s been tried.”
Mamdani has argued that socialism involves “seizing the means of production,” including government control over housing to provide for those in need. He stated: “Whether you call it the abolition of private property or you call it just a statewide housing guarantee, it is preferable to what is going on right now.” In response, Stossel rejects this idea: “No! It’s not! This idea has failed, again and again!”
Stossel lists several countries where forms of socialism were implemented and later abandoned—including nations across Europe, Asia, Africa, and Latin America—arguing that these examples demonstrate consistent negative outcomes. He claims that countries maintaining socialist systems remain economically disadvantaged.
He points specifically to Venezuela as an example of economic decline under socialism: once among Latin America’s wealthiest nations but now facing significant poverty.
Stossel concludes by warning against expectations that higher taxes on wealthy residents will benefit most citizens financially.
