Veteran Litigator Randy Mastro Takes On Mayor Mamdani Over Tax and Rent Policies

Randy Mastro, a seasoned New York litigator, has launched a series of lawsuits targeting Mayor Mamdani’s administration. He contends that the pied-à-terre tax, which applies to high-value second homes, is unlawful because the burden of proof was shifted to homeowners, leading to mistaken notices being sent to primary residents. Mastro also claims the mayor’s plan to freeze rents on stabilized apartments breaches the City Charter, as the independent Rent Guidelines Board—meant to decide such matters—was populated with the mayor’s supporters, undermining a fair hearing.

Beyond tax and rent issues, he is providing pro bono representation to an investigative reporter whose information requests on alleged antisemitism in City Hall have been obstructed. Mastro, known for high-profile cases against organized crime and political corruption, says he has “five lawsuits and counting” and hints at more if the mayor continues to act unlawfully. The confrontations highlight a broader clash between a veteran legal figure and a newly elected mayor whose platform includes far-left policies.