• Source:JND
HighLights
  1. Mayor Mamdani advised setting AC to 78 degrees.
  2. Advice aimed at easing pressure on NYC power grid.
  3. Republican leaders criticised it as 'socialism'.

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani is facing heavy criticism on social media after he advised residents to conserve electricity amid a severe heatwave in the city. His statement has triggered backlash from several Republican leaders, including Vivek Ramaswamy and Nikki Haley, who accused him of promoting constraining policies.

What Did Zohran Mamdani Say?

In a post on X, Mamdani urged residents to help reduce pressure on the power grid during peak heat conditions. He advised them to set their ACs to 78 degrees in an effort to manage electricity demand. He wrote, “New York: it's hot out there, and the power grid is working overtime to keep us cool. Set your AC to 78 degrees, turn off lights/electronics you're not using, and unplug what you can.”

ALSO READ: Europe Heatwave: France Faces Morgue Shortage As Over 1,000 Die; Funerals Delayed Across Several Regions

Mamdani added, “Our City is doing its part too: maintaining the 78 degrees rule in our buildings, dimming/turning off our lights during peak electricity demand, asking private partners to do the same, and powering down non-essential equipment. A stable grid means the AC stays on, and lives are saved. Let's ease demand — and get through the heat — together.”

Republicans Slam Mamdani's Advice

However, Republican leaders and other public figures criticised his statement, calling the advice unnecessary or ideological. Vivek Ramaswamy, a Republican running for governor in Ohio, wrote, “This is what socialism looks like, folks. The right answer isn’t restrictions or mandates. It’s drilling, fracking, coal, & nuclear.” A former candidate for president, Nikki Haley said, “Welcome to socialism.”

Senator Ted Cruz also mocked the advice and wrote, “In a first-world country, you could turn on the A/C.”

ALSO READ: Sleepless Nights, Morning Burnout: Why Europe Still Resists Installing ACs Amid Brutal Heatwaves

Heat Alert In New York

The city is experiencing its first major heatwave of the summer, with temperatures and humidity rising sharply. According to the National Weather Service, multiple cities in New York have already crossed 90 degrees Fahrenheit and temperatures are expected to reach up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit through Friday. City officials have also issued an extreme heat warning from July 1 to 5, with cooling centres opened across the city. Residents have been advised to take precautions and seek assistance through government portals.

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