Is New York City’s political landscape now up for a quarter million dollar bounty?
Rapper 50 Cent has publicly offered to pay New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani over $250,000 to leave the city, following a sharp disagreement over Mamdani’s proposed tax policy aimed at high earners. This surprising offer by 50 Cent highlights a burgeoning political controversy just as the New York City mayoral election cycle begins to heat up.
The dramatic offer, made by 50 Cent on Instagram, came after Zohran Mamdani appeared on The Breakfast Club podcast on June 11, 2025. During the interview, Mamdani, a Democratic socialist, discussed his vision for the city, which includes a significant millionaire tax. He playfully anticipated 50 Cent’s reaction, stating,
“I know if 50 Cent is listening, he’s not going to be happy about this. He tends to not like this tax policy.”
This comment directly preceded the rap icon’s public rebuke.
On June 26, 2025, 50 Cent, whose real name is Curtis Jackson III, responded by posting on his popular Instagram account, offering Mamdani $258,750 and a first class ticket away from New York. Known for his outspoken views on financial matters and previous criticisms of high taxes, 50 Cent expressed his strong disapproval of Mamdani’s plan. He even quipped about informing former President Donald Trump, further emphasizing his opposition to the proposed tax increases.
Zohran Mamdani, born in Uganda and a New York City resident since age seven, has been a member of the New York State Assembly since 2020. Before entering politics, he worked as a housing counselor and was a hip hop musician under the name Mr. Cardamom, adding a unique dimension to his public profile. Now, as a presumptive Democratic nominee for mayor in the 2025 election, Mamdani’s progressive agenda includes a bold tax policy to fund essential city services.
His proposal seeks to generate $10 billion annually by increasing the income tax by 2 percent for households earning over $1 million. Additionally, it aims to raise the corporate tax rate from 7.25 percent to 11.5 percent. These funds are earmarked for initiatives such as free bus service, expanded universal childcare, and even city run grocery stores, which Mamdani argues would benefit all New Yorkers. However, this ambitious tax plan faces significant hurdles, requiring state legislative approval and drawing opposition from moderate Democrats, including Governor Kathy Hochul, who has voiced concerns about hiking taxes on high income earners and businesses.
The clash between 50 Cent and Zohran Mamdani encapsulates broader debates within New York City regarding economic equity and government spending. It highlights the intersection of celebrity influence and political discourse, as a prominent cultural figure challenges a rising political star over differing views on economic policy.
