Criticism from Establishment Figures
Prominent liberal podcaster and NYU professor Scott Galloway has criticized New York City’s Mayor Zohran Mamdani for publishing a database that could expose wealthy landowners to potential risks. The database lists affluent property owners who might be subject to the city’s proposed pied-à-terre tax. Galloway expressed concern that this move could expose owners to harassment.
Details of the Database
The database, made available by New York City’s Department of Finance, enables users to look up properties and check the names and addresses of owners whose non-primary residences might be taxed. This publication is mandated by state law.
“I don’t love this. It feels a bit like doxing,” said Kara Swisher, co-host of the ‘Pivot’ podcast.
Galloway defined doxing as the act of publishing private identifying information to risk public pressure or harm without consent and critiqued the database as resembling a ‘wanted poster’ for property owners.
Response to the Mayor’s Actions
Galloway questioned the motives behind these actions, especially after a healthcare CEO was killed 18 months ago, raising concerns about public safety. He believes Mamdani’s approach fuels conservatives’ fears and makes it harder for progressives advocating for fair tax structures.
“We’re not going to put a big R on your door and say you’ve done something wrong because you’re successful,” Galloway emphasized on the spirit of celebrating success in New York.
Critics Speak Out
James Whelan, President of the Real Estate Board of New York, warned about the complexity of identifying intended tax recipients. He noted inaccuracies in notifications sent to property owners, questioning the city’s readiness for the tax implementation.
Official Statements
Mamdani’s office highlighted that publishing such tax rolls has been a long-standing practice. State law requires a roll listing every property parcel subject to NYC property taxes. Officials asserted the roll is not specifically for the pied-à-terre tax but serves as a general pool from which properties subject to surcharges are identified.
Responses from Other Officials
Other New York officials, including Gov. Kathy Hochul, emphasized that releasing such data is routine. Similar tax rolls exist in cities such as Buffalo, Nassau, and Rochester, ensuring public access to property tax information.