Supporters of Andrew Cuomo are allegedly encouraging New Yorkers who have second homes in the Hamptons to register to vote in the upcoming November election for Democratic socialist mayoral candidate Zoran Mamdani.
The strategy seems to focus on middle-tier Democrats in affluent areas, particularly business owners and restaurateurs who have strong connections to New York and a vested interest in local affairs.
Cohen mentioned that he has engaged with many individuals, some of whom are quite prominent, who have already changed their voter registrations in favor of one of five districts from Long Island’s East End.
“I’ve been trying to communicate this message since the primaries,” Cohen noted. “You may not always win an election, but if you get everything right, you might influence a significant number of votes. There are thousands of factors at play.”
If Mamdani clinches the NYC mayoral position, Cuomo might consider relocating to Florida.
Interestingly, there was a previous instance where a New York City Democrat, after shifting voter registration to the Hamptons, achieved success in securing congressional re-election by a notable margin.
Cohen argued that switching voter registrations is relatively straightforward, assuming the Hamptonites have a “genuine and legitimate” second residence in New York City. He did acknowledge some initial skepticism regarding tax implications, given that the state Election Commission does not allow voting in two locations.
Cuomo has expressed concerns about Mamdani’s policies, suggesting they could lead to dire consequences for New York City.
“There’s absolutely no tax impact; that’s part of our message,” Cohen insisted, characterizing the approach as a long-term effort aimed at engaging New Yorkers in the political sphere.
However, the initiative has faced opposition from Republican donors and local business figures who argue it opens the door to potential audits and complications.
Election attorney Jerry Goldfeder indicated that utilizing a new voter registration form would simply update the Election Commission about address changes.
Some residents, like 87-year-old Mitchell Aids, expressed strong opinions about Mamdani, labeling him “anti-Semitic” and referring to his candidacy as disastrous.
Another voter, Agoos, a longtime supporter of Curtis Sliwa, plans to vote in the election and views it as an opportunity to oppose Mamdani.
Efforts to reach Cuomo’s campaign for comments went unanswered.
