As New York City battles a dangerous, record-breaking heat wave, Democratic Socialist Mayor Zohran Mamdani offered residents his idea of relief.Mamdani posted on X: “It’s hot out there, and the power grid is working overtime to keep us cool. Set your AC to 78 degrees, turn off lights/electronics you’re not using, and unplug what you can.” He added that the city is “maintaining the 78 degrees rule in our buildings” and called for collective action: “A stable grid means the AC stays on, and lives are saved. Let’s ease demand — and get through the heat — together.”

Well, some New Yorkers were not impressed. Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy fired back instantly: “78 degrees??? Welcome to communism people! Hope you enjoy!”

The backlash was swift and brutal — and entirely justified. In a city already dealing with high energy costs, strained infrastructure, and years of progressive governance, Mamdani’s advice struck many as tone-deaf and condescending. While families sweat in cramped apartments and small businesses face rising bills, the mayor’s call for shared sacrifice felt more like virtue signaling than practical leadership.

This perfectly captures the modern leftist mindset: when real problems arise, respond with collectivist slogans instead of delivering results.

New Yorkers don’t need lectures about easing demand through discomfort. They need reliable power, expanded energy capacity, and leaders who prioritize competence over ideology.

The reaction from Portnoy and countless others online shows growing frustration with this approach. Residents would gladly trade the “warmth of collectivism” for cold air, lower bills, and functional government. The temperature outside is hot enough without adding failed socialist experiments on top of it. The disconnect has rarely been clearer.