Mayor Eric Adams has officially thrown his support behind former Governor Andrew Cuomo as he seeks to succeed him as New York City’s mayor. This endorsement comes just weeks after Adams suspended his own re-election campaign, raising eyebrows in a race that has grown increasingly competitive.
The announcement followed a heated debate on Wednesday night where Cuomo, now running as an Independent, faced off against Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani and Republican Curtis Sliwa. Instead of engaging with reporters post-debate, Cuomo quickly made his way to Madison Square Garden to catch the Knicks game courtside with Adams, demonstrating a casual alliance amid a tense political landscape.
“I’m fighting for the family of New York,” Adams declared, framing his support for Cuomo as part of a broader mission. “That’s why I’m here today, to endorse Andrew Cuomo.” He expressed a specific concern for Black and Brown communities who may feel left behind in this election.
However, not everyone shares Adams’ enthusiasm. Mamdani characterized the endorsement as an expected alliance between two figures he accused of embodying corruption. “Today confirms what we’ve long known: Andrew Cuomo is running for Eric Adams’ second term,” Mamdani remarked. He emphasized his intent to move away from what he sees as the entrenched politics of wealth. “We are going to turn the page on the politics of big money and small ideas that these two disgraced executives embody.”
Mamdani’s criticism didn’t end there. Speaking at a campaign event in Manhattan, he reiterated his objections, linking the deal-making ethos of Cuomo and Adams to the political climate in Washington. He conveyed a sense of urgency from voters who are weary of what they perceive as authoritarian tendencies and made clear that they do not want City Hall to become an extension of those policies.
Adams’ endorsement of Cuomo comes amid increasing pressure for candidates to consolidate their positions against Mamdani, who has surged following his primary victory. Many political insiders, including influential billionaires, are now calling for candidates like Sliwa to step down to fortify support for Cuomo. This raises questions about the dynamics driving the race as Mamdani has solidified a significant lead according to recent polls.
Notably, Adams has previously criticized Cuomo, labeling him a “snake” and a “liar.” In addressing this past animosity during his endorsement announcement, he acknowledged Mamdani’s rising influence, stating, “He called me names. But you know what? Now it’s time to fight for the family.” This statement shows a shift in Adams’ focus, prioritizing a united front to tackle the challenges ahead.
Recent polling underscores the uphill battle Cuomo faces. A survey conducted in mid-October shows Mamdani holding a robust 21-point lead among registered voters in New York City. This poll indicates that among likely voters, Mamdani garners support from more than half, a clear advantage over Cuomo and Sliwa. Yet despite the numbers, Cuomo’s notoriety and experience in politics cannot be dismissed outright and will likely continue to influence voter perceptions in this unpredictable race.
Mamdani’s victory in the Democratic primary was no small feat. By forming coalitions and securing endorsements from figures like New York City Comptroller Brad Lander, he successfully navigated the political landscape to deny Cuomo a path back to political prominence in the party. This strategic approach has catapulted him to the forefront, positioning him as a candidate who can resonate with both traditional and progressive voters.
The endorsement from Adams sets the stage for a fierce battle ahead, as former allies become rivals in the quest for New York City’s highest office. The tension and competing narratives will only grow as the election date approaches, making every shift in voter sentiment and candidate positioning more critical than ever.
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