New York’s mayoral election reaches its final ballot with Zohran Mamdani, a democratic socialist and state assembly member, entering Election Day ahead in most public polling. Andrew Cuomo, the scandal-scarred former governor running as an independent, is fighting for an upset while Republican Curtis Sliwa stays on the ballot despite calls from party donors to stand down.
Mamdani shocked Democrats in June by defeating Cuomo in the party primary by roughly 12 points, then consolidated a city-wide coalition built on rent freezes, cheaper transport and higher taxes on top earners. Cuomo pivoted to an independent run, pitching experience, public safety and a centrist reset of City Hall. Sliwa, who led the 2021 GOP ticket, has campaigned as a law-and-order alternative.
The final weeks were anything but dull. Major Republican donor John Catsimatidis publicly urged Sliwa to withdraw and back Cuomo to block Mamdani. Sliwa stayed put, keeping the race three-way and complicating Cuomo’s path in a city that still leans Democratic.
Why it matters for democrats
The contest has become a referendum on where Democrats go next: a progressive, movement-driven agenda under Mamdani, or a centrist restoration under Cuomo. National figures have leaned in, framing New York as a bellwether for urban governance and the party’s economic message.
Cuomo’s bid for redemption
Cuomo’s comeback began months ago amid mixed reception, after his 2021 resignation over sexual-harassment allegations. He has pitched competence and crisis management, courting moderates and disaffected Republicans to build a cross-over majority.
What to watch
Turnout patterns will be decisive. Mamdani’s base skews younger and highly mobilised; Cuomo’s hopes rest on older, habitual voters plus independents and Republicans. With Sliwa splitting anti-left votes, small swings in outer-borough precincts could decide the most influential city’s next mayor.
Sources: AP News, Politico, The New York Times