Look Out, New York 

     It would be interesting to know how socialist countries around the world are doing. We would like insight on how New York, our largest city, is going to fare with socialist mayor Zohran Mamdani. 

     He is the youngest mayor in NYC in a century, and its first Muslim leader. We know how Venezuela went from wealthiest country in South America to crash and burn, when people voted for a candidate with promising new ideas. 

     So, Mamdani isn't the first politician to capture votes of the working class with an attractive "tax the rich" speech. Who wouldn't like better rents, free buses, free child-care, and city-run grocery stores not making profits? If all that is not enough, slap a 2% tax on New Yorkers who make more than $1 million, and hike corporate tax rates.   

     He has a little problem; state lawmakers must approve any change in tax law. He knew that when he campaigned. Gov. Kathy Hochul has criticized policies that might drive wealthy New Yorkers out of the state, not just the city. Some may have relocated already. 

     His opponents warned that freezing rents could drive up prices in the long run. Not sure how that happens, but maybe you know. 

     We're not thrilled with those who make many millions (MMM), whether corporate heads or politicians or football coaches. But messing with the system, at any level, had better be wise. See Argentina and Venezuela...maybe Canada, recently under a socialist leader.   

             Jimmy

PS. Mamdani has already given himself and his staff large pay increases.