Former Governor Plans Independent Bid Following Defeat to Progressive Challenger Zohran Mamdani
According to reporting by NewsNation, where Cuomo’s brother Chris serves as an anchor, the former governor intends to mount an independent campaign in the general election, joining a crowded and politically diverse field that already includes incumbent Mayor Eric Adams (also running as an independent), Mamdani representing the Democratic left, and Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa.
Cuomo’s team has yet to issue an official campaign announcement, but a spokesperson confirmed one is forthcoming. As of now, Cuomo remains on the ballot under an independent line and has not ruled out a full campaign effort.
“As the numbers from the primary come in, I’ll be reviewing them closely and discussing with my advisors what course of action will best serve the City of New York,” Cuomo stated at the conclusion of the primary.
One of Cuomo’s reported strategies includes urging other candidates not leading by mid-September to voluntarily withdraw from the race — a move aimed at consolidating opposition against Mamdani.
Mamdani’s upset victory in the Democratic primary has made waves throughout the city’s political establishment. The 33-year-old Queens assemblyman, who has been endorsed by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Rep. Adriano Espaillat, is known for his bold progressive stances — including raising taxes on high earners, creating publicly funded grocery stores, and implementing universal childcare using city funds.
His outspoken criticism of Israel, a U.S. ally, has also drawn national attention and criticism. Cuomo distinguished himself from Mamdani during the primary by vocally supporting Israel, a stance that helped him secure backing from several pro-Israel groups and donors.
Three recent polls suggest a tight race, with Mamdani and Sliwa leading, and Cuomo and Adams battling for third. Despite his political experience, Cuomo faces an uphill climb. His three-term tenure as governor ended in 2021 following a series of sexual harassment allegations. While Cuomo denied the accusations, he ultimately resigned and has since remained largely out of public office, although he has maintained visibility through media appearances and commentary.
As the race continues to take shape, voters in New York City may be heading toward one of the most unpredictable and ideologically diverse mayoral elections in recent memory.
Source: Adapted from original reporting by Ashley Oliver, Fox News
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By Marcus Wright — Freelance journalist covering culture and justice; sociology background; youth mentor.
Email: m.wrght@midtowntimes.com
