Cindy Adams Reminisces About NYC's Golden Age, Offers Budget Ideas for Mayor Mamdani

The Post columnist reflects on the city's vibrant past and proposes creative solutions to fund Mamdani's proposed budget.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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In her latest column, veteran New York Post writer Cindy Adams takes a nostalgic look back at the city's golden age in the 1940s and 1950s, recounting the bustling stores, entertainment, and celebrity sightings that defined that era. She then shifts her focus to the present, offering Mayor Zohran Mamdani some unconventional ideas to help fund his proposed city budget, including taxing New Yorkers who own sweaters and finding employment for Prince Harry.

Why it matters

Adams' reflections on New York's vibrant past serve as a poignant contrast to the city's current challenges, underscoring the need to preserve the unique character and community that has long defined the five boroughs. Her budget proposals, while tongue-in-cheek, highlight the creative thinking required to address the city's fiscal woes in the face of limited resources.

The details

Adams reminisces about the golden age of New York in the mid-20th century, when the city was a bustling hub of commerce, entertainment, and celebrity culture. She recalls the thriving stores, popular TV shows, and iconic nightlife that defined that era. The columnist then shifts her focus to the present, offering Mayor Mamdani some unconventional ideas to help fund his proposed city budget, such as taxing New Yorkers who own sweaters and finding employment for Prince Harry.

  • In the 1940s and 1950s, New York City was in its 'golden age'.
  • The column was published on March 8, 2026.

The players

Cindy Adams

A veteran columnist for the New York Post who is known for her nostalgic reflections on the city's past and her tongue-in-cheek commentary on current events.

Zohran Mamdani

The current mayor of New York City, who is facing budget challenges and has proposed a new city budget.

Prince Harry

The British royal who has been seeking employment since stepping back from his royal duties.

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What they’re saying

“An opportunity to make my life's most epic theatrical experience — and everything including theaters were closed. The film's about the sun dying but shows we're capable of solving impossible problems. If we don't give up, miracles are possible.”

— Ryan Gosling (Instagram)

“Your choice. Take the sewing machine and go to work — or take the mirror and sit down to watch yourself starve.”

— Jasper, Husband (Cindy Adams column)

What’s next

Adams does not provide any clear next steps or future newsworthy moments related to this story.

The takeaway

Cindy Adams' nostalgic reflections on New York City's golden age serve as a poignant reminder of the city's vibrant past, while her creative budget proposals, though tongue-in-cheek, highlight the need for innovative thinking to address the city's current fiscal challenges and preserve its unique character.