New York State Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani recently indicated his interest in resolving what he describes as a "one-sided feud" with acclaimed rapper 50 Cent concerning tax policy.
During a recent appearance on the "Complex" podcast, hosted by Jillian Superstar, Assemblyman Mamdani was asked about his ideal dinner party guests, living or deceased.
Mamdani's Dinner Party Dream Guests
Mamdani's primary choice was former New York City Mayor Fiorello La Guardia, whom he lauded as the greatest mayor in the city's history. He then added, "I would throw in 50 Cent so we could have a conversation around tax policy." The interviewer concurred, calling it "a very much needed conversation."
The Policy Disagreement Escalates
The Assemblyman previously addressed his appreciation for 50 Cent's work while acknowledging the artist's strong disapproval of his tax proposals during a June 2025 interview on "The Breakfast Club." Mamdani clarified his stance at the time, 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, but I want to be very clear: This is about $20,000 a year. It's a rounding error. And all of these things together, they make every New Yorker's life better, including those who are actually getting taxed now."
The rapper, whose real name is Curtis Jackson III, promptly responded to Mamdani's comments with a dismissive tone. "Where did he come from? Whose friend is this? I’m not feeling this plan. No. I will give him $258,750 and a first-class one-way ticket away from NY. I’m telling Trump what he said too!" 50 Cent remarked.
Appreciation Beyond Politics
Despite the public disagreement, Mamdani reiterated during the "Complex" interview that he remains a fan of 50 Cent. Superstar highlighted this by playing an audio clip of Mamdani quoting lyrics from the rapper's album, "Get Rich or Die Tryin'," during a recent commencement address.
When asked by the interviewer if it was a "one-sided beef," Assemblyman Mamdani confirmed, "It's a one-sided beef." He concluded by acknowledging their fundamental policy differences: "I think we're always going to have a disagreement on that tax policy. I want to increase taxes on the wealthiest. He does not want that to happen. But I will still appreciate the song 'Many Men,' whatever our disagreements are."
