A big swath of the nation is suffering during a tropical heat wave that is coupled with sweltering humidity. In many locations, the mercury is near or topping 100 degrees. People are struggling to cope and stay cool. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani made a suggestion that is not being received warmly. He wants to prevent the electrical grid from being overly stressed during this period of high usage. Therefore Mamdani asked New Yorkers to put their AC at 78 degrees. That was not welcomed by many.
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Mamdani Made a Request That Left New Yorkers Feeling Grumpy
The mayor wrote on X on July 1, "New York: 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. Our City is doing its part too: maintaining the 78 degrees rule in our buildings, dimming/turning off our 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 Pushback Was Hot and Quick
Commenters wrote on X exactly what they thought of that hint. They were sizzling mad. Many seemed to think it was tone-deaf of Mamdani to offer that tip while the city broils.
"My AC in the free state of South Carolina is set at 69 right now and the door is open so my dog can watch for invading communists,like yourself, in comfort."
Another person posted a pic of Times Square, whose brilliant illumination presumably uses tons of electricity.
Someone else added an image of George Washington crossing the Delaware. They noted "sets air conditioner to 60."
"This isn't the European Union," quipped yet another observer. "Set those thermostats to 60."
What About MSG, Rumored Site of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's Wedding?
Per TMZ, the singer and the gridiron great won't get celeb treatment if their nuptials take place at MSG. An unnamed official reportedly told the outlet that Mamdani's remark about the AC at 78 applies throughout New York City. That includes MSG.
However, the venue "is automatically climate-controlled." Therefore the AC goes to whatever setting is appropriate for the temp outside. And if the power fails, per TMZ, generators will keep the star-studded wedding bash for Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce going.
