Mamdani Decries Alleged White House Interference in NYC Mayoral Race as ‘Affront to Democracy’
Mamdani Decries Alleged White House Interference in NYC Mayoral Race as ‘Affront to Democracy’
New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani vehemently condemned reports on Wednesday alleging that the White House is considering offering administration positions to rivals Mayor Eric Adams and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa. Mamdani labeled the reported discussions an “affront to our democracy.”
The New York Times reported that advisors to President Donald Trump have explored the possibility of offering incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, who is running as an independent, a federal role. The purported aim is to clear the field, setting up a direct contest between Mamdani and former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who lost the Democratic primary to Mamdani and is now also running independently. Similar discussions reportedly involved Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa.
Speaking at a press conference on September 2, 2025, Mamdani stated, “Today, we have learned what New Yorkers have long suspected — that Andrew Cuomo is Donald Trump’s choice to be the next mayor of this city.” He further emphasized the gravity of the situation, declaring, “This is, however, about an affront to our democracy… that we choose our own leaders, not that they get to be picked by the president of the United States.” Mamdani emotionally stressed that New York “is not for sale,” framing his campaign as a fight against the notion that the city’s future can be manipulated by external powers.
Both Mayor Adams’ and Curtis Sliwa’s campaigns have denied any contact with the White House regarding job offers. Adams’ spokesperson stated that the Mayor has not met with Trump and is fully committed to winning the November election. Sliwa also affirmed his focus on the New York race, asserting his commitment to Election Day.
Mamdani expressed anger over what he described as “backroom deals” that alienate New Yorkers, suggesting that his strong primary win over Cuomo might have prompted Trump’s alleged involvement. He reiterated that no mayoral candidate should consider deals with an administration he believes is actively harming New Yorkers.
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