Manhattan District Attorney Race: A Debate That Should Have Happened

The Campaign Finance Board has scheduled debates for mayoral, comptroller, and public advocate candidates, but the Manhattan district attorney race has been notably absent from the list.

In 2021, incumbent Alvin Bragg participated in Democratic primary debates but avoided a direct confrontation with Republican candidate Tom Kenniff, opting for a brief Zoom call that lacked face-to-face engagement. This year’s race is particularly significant, given the rise in subway murders from zero in 2017 to 11 in 2024, and Bragg’s refusal to prosecute fare evasion, costing the Metropolitan Transportation Authority approximately $700 million annually.

Bragg’s record of dismissing arrests and downgrading felonies has raised questions about his effectiveness. Critics, including a former public defender and city advocate, urge him to accept a public debate to account for his decisions and policies.

DA Alvin Bragg — Bragg forgoing a debate against his opponent.

The race’s importance is heightened with Zohran Mamdani leading in the mayoral race, and many believe that the political direction of the city hinges on this election. Critics argue that policies championed by Mamdani and Bragg, centered on criminal justice reform and de-carceration, hinder law enforcement and threaten public safety, making streets and subway stations less safe and city services less effective.

The policies promoted by Mamdani and Bragg are seen by opponents as harmful, fueling homelessness and drug addiction crises, and undermining efforts to rehabilitate mentally ill and addicted individuals. Many residents feel that these approaches protect criminals at the expense of everyday New Yorkers’ safety and quality of life.

After four years in office, Bragg is called to defend his record publicly. A debate would clarify his stance on these critical issues, and whether voters can trust him to lead the city’s prosecution efforts amid rising crime and chaos.

Maud Maron is a former Legal Aid Society lawyer and the GOP candidate for Manhattan district attorney.