New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani [UPI=Yonhap News]

As a record-breaking heatwave strikes New York and other regions in the eastern United States, New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani is facing a barrage of criticism from the Republican Party after urging citizens to set their air conditioning to 78°F (25.6°C).

Although the recommendation was intended to save energy and prevent power grid strain, Republican figures have harshly attacked the move, labeling it "communism" and "socialism."

On the evening of the 1st (local time), Mayor Mamdani posted on X (formerly Twitter), "New York: It’s hot. Our power grid is working overtime to keep us cool. Please set your A/C to 78 degrees, turn off unnecessary lights and appliances, and unplug them when possible. Our city is doing its best."

The following day, the 2nd, the daytime high in New York reached 38°C (100.4°F), marking the highest temperature since July 18, 2012.

The U.S. National Weather Service (NWS) reported on the 3rd that this heatwave is expected to persist through the weekend, which includes the Independence Day holiday.

Hardline Republicans were quick to push back.

Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) wrote on X, "Proof that (sadly) communism is alive and well," while Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) also posted, "This is how communism works."

Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) joined in, stating, "Democratic socialists are coming for your air conditioning."

Former U.S. Ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley remarked, "Welcome to socialism," and reality TV star and former Los Angeles mayoral candidate Spencer Pratt mocked him by saying, "Show us your thermostat, you communist."

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis (R) also commented, "Is this what they mean by the warmth of collectivism?"

These remarks appear to be politically motivated, coming shortly after candidates affiliated with the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) achieved a series of victories in recent Democratic House primary elections in places like New York and Colorado.

However, it has been noted that the Florida Public Service Commission also advised residents last month to set their air conditioning to 78°F (25.6°C) during the summer.

The Hill, a publication specializing in U.S. congressional news, reported that the U.S. Department of Energy had previously recommended setting indoor temperatures to 75–78°F (23.9–25.6°C) for energy efficiency. The Hill noted, however, that these recommendations appear to have since been removed from the Department of Energy's website.

In South Korea, regulations require public institutions to maintain indoor temperatures at or above 28°C during the summer.