NYC Mayoral Race: Cuomo Launches Independent Bid After Stunning Primary Defeat
NYC Mayoral Race: Cuomo Launches Independent Bid After Stunning Primary Defeat
Former New York governor Andrew Cuomo is reportedly set to launch an independent campaign for New York City mayor. This decision comes just days after his surprising defeat in the Democratic primary to progressive challenger Zohran Mamdani.
Reports late Thursday confirm that Cuomo, 67, a figure from New York’s prominent political dynasty, will not concede the race despite losing the primary to democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani. Mamdani is now considered the frontrunner and could make history as the city’s first Muslim mayor in the November general election.
Cuomo is expected to appear on the ballot under a “Fight and Deliver” line, though he has yet to commit to actively campaigning in the months ahead. This move places Cuomo alongside incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, another Democrat who has opted for an independent run, adding further complexity to the race. Cuomo previously resigned in 2021 amid allegations of sexual harassment and workplace bullying.
The political landscape of New York City shifted dramatically on Tuesday night when Mamdani, through a highly effective campaign, overcame Cuomo’s initial 20-point lead, ultimately winning by seven points with strong support from younger voters.
Mamdani, 33, has sought to reassure the business community regarding his platform, which includes tax increases for the wealthy and rent freezes. He told ABC News that “there is a need for a new generation of leadership,” emphasizing the Democratic party’s focus on working-class Americans. His victory has prompted strong reactions, with some Wall Street figures expressing concern, like hedge fund billionaire Dan Loeb who posted “It’s officially hot commie summer” on X.
While reports indicate Cuomo is set to run, he faces a deadline of Friday’s end to withdraw from the independent ballot line, according to the New York State Board of Elections. Mamdani, however, expressed no concern about Cuomo’s independent bid in a Thursday interview with CNN, stating their previous face-off “turned out pretty well.”
The developing race has also drawn national attention, with Tennessee Republican Congressman Andy Ogles calling for Mamdani’s deportation and denaturalization, citing a New York Post article. Ogles, in an X post and a letter to US Attorney General Pam Bondi, labeled Mamdani “antisemitic, socialist, communist” and accused him of previously expressing solidarity with individuals convicted of terrorism-related offenses. Mamdani was born in Uganda.
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