WARMTH OF COLLECTIVISM: Mamdani ROASTED for urging New Yorkers to keep AC at 78 degrees during heat wave

As New York City roasts under a massive heat wave, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani was roasted online for urging New Yorkers to keep their air conditioners set at a tepid 78 degrees despite the blistering temperatures.

"New York: it's hot out there, and the power grid is working overtime to keep us cool," the mayor said. "Set your AC to 78 degrees, turn off lights and electronics you're not using, and unplug what you can. Our city is doing its part, too: maintaining the 78-degree rule in our buildings, dimming or turning off lights during peak electricity demand, asking private partners to do the same, and powering down non-essential equipment. A stable grid means the AC stays on, and lives are saved. Let's ease demand—and get through the heat—together."

The post comes as Central Park is eyeing its first 100-degree day in 14 years on Friday, according to NBC New York.

The post quickly drew backlash, with many users blasting Mamdani for what they viewed as another example of failed socialist policy. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis quipped on X, "Is this what was meant by the warmth of collectivism?"

Former Los Angeles mayoral candidate Spencer Pratt also weighed in, condemning Mamdani as a communist.

"Communism always goes the same way," he wrote. "They smile and promise you the world. Free this, free that, abundance for all! How? Don't ask! Then they get into power, and the rationing begins. First a smiley ask. Then a demand. Then a bullet. 'You used too much energy, comrade.'"

Some took a more defiant tone. X user Finance Guy responded to Mamdani's post, writing, "As a New Yorker, I'll be setting my AC to 62 degrees for the foreseeable future as a direct retaliation to your authority."

Several users also pointed to the bright lights and massive digital billboards in Times Square, calling the mayor's request hypocritical. Others questioned why everyday residents were being asked to conserve electricity while some of the city's biggest commercial displays remained illuminated around the clock. Critics argued City Hall should focus on reducing energy consumption in highly visible public spaces before asking New Yorkers to make sacrifices in their own homes.