The 'It Is What It Is' Attitude: New Yorkers Reflect on the Mayoral Race

Introduction

The municipal election cycle in New York City shouldn't just be a matter of routine; it should ignite spirited debates and passionate discussions. Yet, as I crisscrossed the city, I encountered an unsettling truth: voters are largely indifferent, embracing a resigned outlook summed up in the phrase, 'It is what it is.'

Voter Attitudes

In the Bronx, I met Al, who captures this sentiment perfectly. A worker for the Metropolitan Transit Authority, he bluntly dismissed the proposals of democratic socialist candidate Zohran Mamdani, saying, "Free buses is stupid. It's never going to happen anyway. My bosses like money." Al's skepticism reflects a broader disillusionment about political promises in a city known for its vibrant and often tumultuous political landscape.

Then there's Derrick, a hospitality worker in midtown. His mixed feelings about the candidates he faced reveal a complex voter psyche where histories and expectations collide. Derrick said he thought former mayor Bill de Blasio was better than current mayor Eric Adams but still supports Curtis Sliwa. 'We know Curtis, and he loves New York City,' he remarked. This contradictory stance underscores a fundamental truth: New Yorkers defy easy categorization.

Voices from Staten Island and Beyond

A day later, I found myself in St. George, Staten Island, at Steiny's Pub. I spoke with Cindy and Denise, both long-time public school employees. Their comments—"It just doesn't matter that much"—speak volumes about how disconnected they feel from the political theatrics unfolding around them. They remind us that while the election may be framed as critical, day-to-day life often takes precedence.

The Reality of Civic Engagement

“Life happens here, not up with the kings who run stuff.”

This phrase from Cindy crystallizes the apathy resonating throughout the city. The notion that the election results could drastically alter their daily lives feels far-fetched to those who embody the resilient spirit of Gotham. Renowned for its rapid political flux, New York's core identity remains steadfast, shaped more by its inhabitants than by those who hold political office.

What Does It Mean for Democracy?

In Bay Ridge, I had my final illuminating conversation with Steve and Suzanne, who've lived in the area for over two decades. Their lingering skepticism about candidates like Andrew Cuomo reflects their belief that access and presence matter more than mere promises. As they pondered whether Cuomo had even visited their Republican enclave, one couldn't help but sense a deserved resentment toward perceived political aloofness.

A Critical Perspective

Perhaps we should view this prevailing indifference as a wake-up call for civic engagement. It's easy to adopt a cynical viewpoint when faced with political mischief, but this election season can—and should—lead to broader conversations about community interests and desires. Turning the phrase 'it is what it is' into a rallying cry for accountability may be the key to re-engaging disenchanted voters.

Concluding Thoughts

Gotham's essence lies in its people, the workers who rise before dawn and traverse their city with hopes, dreams, and frustrations. As I reflect on my conversations, it's abundantly clear that while the atmosphere may be charged with anxiety, the heart of New York pulses with resolve. The challenges are vast, but so are the potential solutions that can emerge through genuine civic discourse.

As New Yorkers head to the polls, let this not be just an election but a moment to reexamine the fundamental essence of our democracy. The 'whatever will be' attitude should not define us; rather, let us strive to embrace an engagement that ignites the hope and energy inherent in this vibrant metropolis.