The 1977 mayoral race was as electrified as the rest of the city was during that very tumultuous year. The incumbent mayor was Abraham Beame, who was challenged by fellow Democrats Ed Koch, Mario Cuomo and Bella Adzug. Koch was the ultimate winner; however, this was not necessarily the best decision for the city at this time in history. Given the issues present in New York City (NYC) during the 1970s, with particular regard to the broiling racial tensions that were flaming under the city like a tinderbox, Mario Cuomo would have the best option for whom to vote. His demeanor was cool and collected, and his level of reasoning and clean political approach would have been a better option for what the city needed in terms of leadership at that time.