In a surprising twist, former governor Andrew Cuomo came out swinging during the final debate of the three-way mayoral race, showcasing an energy that had been notably absent from his campaign up until now.

Previously criticized for a lackluster performance, Cuomo seemed reinvigorated and ready to challenge his opponents, particularly targeting frontrunner Zohran Mamdani. During the debate, Cuomo confronted Mamdani on allegations of antisemitism that have been a persistent issue for the Democratic candidate.

“Are you the guardian of the Jewish community now?” Cuomo quipped in response to Mamdani’s assertion that he aimed not only to “protect” Jewish New Yorkers but also to “celebrate” and “cherish” them.

Mamdani, known for his theatrical flair, made a memorable entrance to the debate, arriving via city bus in a manner reminiscent of a sports star stepping onto the field. His charisma and rhetorical skills were on full display, setting the stage for a dynamic showdown.

Mamdani arrived at the debate on a city bus, walking in like Aaron Judge strolling up to the plate. He certainly has a flair for showmanship, as well as a rhetorical gift and an undeniable charisma.

But his resume, as Republican Curtis Sliwa noted in one of his best zingers, “could fit on a cocktail napkin.”

Cuomo seized on that flimsy CV and Mamdani’s political naivete. On a few occasions, he schooled his young opponent on the dynamics of city and state government, saying that actual mayoral powers will prohibit Mamdani from making good on his campaign promises, including a rent freeze.

Cuomo called the 34-year-old’s everything-is-free pledges “political blather” as he hammered Mamdani on his absenteeism in the State Assembly and his inattention to affordability issues while in Albany.

“This man never even proposed a bill on housing,” Cuomo railed.

Mamdani tossed Cuomo’s record and sexual harassment allegations back in his face, saying, “The issue is that we experienced your experience.”

The young upstart, coasting on his lead, mostly offered his smug smarmy perma-smile in place of real answers. It’s simply off-putting.

Once again, he relied on platitudes, regularly noting his two opponents are living in the past, man! He’s the only candidate offering a vision for the future.

Meanwhile, Sliwa, who is facing a flurry of calls from across the city to drop out and make way for a two-man race, came from the top ropes to hit both opponents with their support for cashless bail.

The Republican nominee delivered substance and common sense on mental illness, policing and crime — with the type of New York City attitude that’s rapidly disappearing from the five boroughs.

And it’s obvious why he’s gathered a lot of fans online. Sliwa will surely have even more after tonight’s performance, telling Mamdani, “Don’t be glazing me here, Zohran” after the Dem paid him a compliment.

Typically, more New Yorkers get in line for a slice at a new pizzeria than to cast a vote for mayor.

But there is a palpable buzz in the air for this unconventional race. thanks to Mamdani igniting a younger, traditionally detached demographic.

Cuomo needed to show up Wednesday night and prove to New Yorkers that he was not only alive but could still throw a fastball.

Now it’s New Yorkers who must show up at the polls and vote. This isn’t the year to stay home.