Andrew Cuomo finally jabs at the arrogant Zahran Mamdani

Andrew Cuomo has already eaten wheat grains.

The former governor, who ran his entire mayoral campaign on 2% iPhone battery power, looked a bit like his old combative self in Wednesday’s debate — the last in this three-way race for mayor.

After a A lukewarm performance during last week’s debatethe independent candidate finally took some strong jabs at front-runner Zahran Mamdani, including accusations of anti-Semitism that continue to haunt the Democratic nominee.

“Are you the savior of the Jewish people now?” Cuomo said flippantly when Mamdani said he not only wanted to “protect” Jewish New Yorkers, but also to “celebrate” and “cherish” them.

Mamdani arrived at the debate on a city bus, and entered like Aaron Judge as he walked toward the panel. He certainly has a talent for showmanship, as well as rhetorical talent and undeniable charisma.

But his resume, as Republican Curtis Sliwa pointed out One of the best zingers“It can be placed on a cocktail napkin.”

Cuomo seized on that Mamdani’s flimsy CV and political naivety. On a few occasions, he coached his young opponent on the dynamics of city and state government, saying the mayor’s de facto powers would prevent Mamdani from fulfilling his campaign promises, including a rent freeze.

Cuomo called the 34-year-old’s free-everything pledges “political gibberish” as he attacked Mamdani over his absence from the State Assembly and his lack of attention to affordability issues while in Albany.

“This man has never proposed a housing bill,” Cuomo said.

Mamdani turned Cuomo’s record and sexual harassment allegations back in his face, saying: “The problem is that we lived through your experience.”

The arrogant young man, who was leading the way, was mostly offering his smug smile instead of real answers. It is simply unfavorable.

Once again, he relied on platitudes, regularly pointing out that his two opponents were living in the past, man! He is the only candidate who offers a vision for the future.

Meanwhile, Saliwa, facing a wave of calls from across the city to withdraw and make way for a two-man race, came from the top ropes to bash both opponents with their support for cashless bail.

The Republican nominee offered substance and common sense on mental illness, policing and crime — with the kind of New York City attitude that is quickly disappearing from the five boroughs.

It is clear why he has gathered so many fans online. And Saliwa is sure to have more after tonight’s performance, as he told Mamdani, “Don’t fool me here, Zahran,” after the Democrat praised him.

Normally, more New Yorkers would line up to get a slice at a new pizzeria than to cast their ballot for mayor.

But there is a definite buzz in the air for this unorthodox race. This is thanks to Mamdani who has ignited a younger and traditionally isolated demographic.

Cuomo had to show up Wednesday night and prove to New Yorkers that not only is he alive, but he can still throw a fastball.

Now New Yorkers have to come to the polls and vote. This is not the year to stay home.