Strong response

Lander's plan focuses on directly addressing raids by ICE while also ensuring that city services are not affected by potential federal funding cuts. Lander emphasizes his role as the only public official who actively challenged Trump's previous $80 million theft from city accounts. His comprehensive approach focuses on creating city-level alternatives to federal services while preparing budgets for significant funding cuts affecting over $100 billion in annual federal support, and creating expanded legal services and sanctuary city status.

Strong response

Mamdani proposes the most expensive and systematic response, centered on his "Trump-Proofing NYC" framework requiring $165 million in new immigration legal services and $10 billion in annual revenue generation through corporate and wealth taxes. His plan calls for complete elimination of ICE access to city facilities on Day 1 and ending all NYPD cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. He plans to extend the city's sanctuary city status for LGBTQIA+ communities, immigrants and provide local work permits. He also plans to sue the federal government when necessary. Mamdani also made headlines when he confronted border czar Tom Homan over the his push for mass deportation when Homan visited Albany in mid March 2025: Mamdani X Account

Strong response

Adams positions herself as the only candidate with a proven track record, having successfully sued the Trump administration to block an ICE center at Rikers Island. Her strategy focuses on deploying city legal resources directly to immigrant communities while maintaining aggressive litigation against federal overreach. Adrienne talks about how immigrants are important to the city, bringing their traditions, entrepreneurship, and culture to the city - noting that deportations and detentions could cost the city $310 million in tax revenue.

Moderate Response

Stringer proposes a $1 billion rainy day fund split equally with the state to weather potential federal funding cuts, combined with his SHIELD plan to prevent Trump from privatizing federal buildings in the city. His approach draws on his experience as Comptroller divesting $4 billion in pension funds from Trump-supporting industries.

Moderate Response

Cuomo states his greatest strength is his previous experience confronting Trump, stating that he has taken on Trump before and he can do it again. He proposes a "6-Point Plan" for federal troop deployments to solve any local problems before Trump can claim there is a national emergency. Cuomo’s strategy emphasizes practical governance and preparation for ongoing federal policy impacts like the SALT deduction cap, which would limit NYC's residents' ability to deduct state and local taxes from their federal income taxes.

Moderate Response

Tilson advocates the most restrained approach, noting that federal funds equal 10% of the city budget and warning against actions that could jeopardize this funding. His strategy emphasizes competent management over political confrontation while maintaining readiness to sue when necessary. Whitney believes that with proper management and pragmatism, the city can avoid confrontation with Trump.

Moderate Response

Myrie stated during the debates that he would be a mayor with a backbone, standing up for New Yorkers, including immigrants. He connects Trump resistance to his signature housing initiative, arguing that building 1 million homes over 10 years will generate $18 billion in new revenue, reducing dependence on federal funding. His approach emphasizes growing the city's tax base while providing legal defense, and believes that his other policies will help create a more stable and prosperous city.