Part 9/13:
Public reactions vary widely. Some residents, especially those who didn't vote or feel disenfranchised, see Mandani's win as inevitable due to systemic issues like high rent, crime, and economic uncertainty. Many blame the city’s declining business environment, which has seen small businesses shuttered by rising rents, crime, and regulatory burdens. In particular, the fear of increasing taxes and mandates is driving small business owners to consider leaving the city for better opportunities elsewhere.