Cuomo and Adams Go Head-to-Head in NYC Mayoral Race
In a recent series of interviews, former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo and current New York City Mayor Eric Adams have been targeting each other as they each seek to establish their positions against Democratic candidate Zoran Mamdani, who they both argue is not suitable to lead the city.
During a Saturday breakfast gathering in Hampton, organized by businessman and conservative radio host John Catsimatidis, Cuomo subtly criticized Adams, claiming New York City has lacked a “competent” mayor since Michael Bloomberg stepped down in 2013. Cuomo, who is running as an independent against Mamdani and Republican Curtis Sliwa, remarked that the city is currently “feeling out of control.”
On the other hand, Adams openly condemned Cuomo while discussing his own campaign, emphasizing that he is a more moderate and conservative choice compared to Mamdani.
In a Thursday interview, Adams referred to Cuomo’s administration, stating, “Andrew Cuomo is running away from his record. Bail reform. I had to fix it. Cannabis law. I had to fix it. I got older, which ended the automatic prosecution of 16- and 17-year-olds as adults. I had to fix it.” He further asserted that he worked to correct the “confusion” created during Cuomo’s time in office.
Both candidates took aim at Mamdani indirectly, with Cuomo metaphorically suggesting he might “move to Florida” if Mamdani were to win, though his campaign later clarified that this was a joke. “That being said,” Cuomo’s spokesperson stated, “the line highlighted concerns about future elections and the potential risks of electing a young, inexperienced socialist who relies on unrealistic slogans.”
Adams also expressed his disapproval of Mamdani’s policies. He pointed out that Mamdani’s plan to release individuals from Rikers Island would have significant consequences. Additionally, Adams criticized the idea of replacing police with social workers for responding to domestic violence calls, referencing the tragic deaths of NYPD officers Wilbert Mora and Jason Rivera during a domestic violence incident.
As the political landscape tightens, Mamdani recently secured the Democratic nomination, leaving voters not aligned with the far left to decide between independents Cuomo and Adams, along with Republican Sliwa.
