“Homes Should Be Homes, Not Hotels”: Mamdani Defends Airbnb Ban in New York City”

During a press conference announcing a **major legal victory against a negligent landlord at 919 Prospect Avenue in the Bronx**, Mamdani highlighted the city’s efforts to protect tenants from unsafe housing conditions. A court ordered the landlord to pay **more than $2.1 million in penalties** and carry out repairs after years of violations that left residents dealing with pests, mold, and unsafe living conditions. City leaders said the ruling sets a **strong precedent for holding bad landlords accountable** and ensuring tenants have safe and dignified homes. While answering questions from reporters, the mayor also addressed housing and economic issues, including the city’s stance on **short-term rentals such as Airbnb**. He reiterated that New York City homes should remain **places for residents to live rather than be converted into hotels**, arguing that protecting housing supply is critical for working-class New Yorkers. The mayor also touched on the city’s economy, homelessness shelters, and preparations for upcoming global events like the **FIFA World Cup.**