Andrew Cuomo, a candidate in New York City’s mayoral race, expressed that he would prefer Donald Trump to defeat Zoran Mamdani, describing Mamdani’s position as “slippery.” In an interview on CNBC’s “Squawk Box,” Cuomo emphasized that voters are faced with a “strict” choice between him and Mamdani, both of whom he sees as serious contenders. He pointed out that Republicans are likely rooting for Mamdani, suggesting that a victory for the democratic socialist would provide the GOP with opportunities to harshly criticize Democrats.
“If you’re a Republican, you’re hoping for Mamdani to win,” Cuomo remarked.
These comments from the former governor come amid speculation regarding Mayor Eric Adams possibly offering a role in the Trump administration in exchange for Mamdani’s withdrawal from the race, as he prepares for a second-term independent bid. Reports have indicated that Trump’s advisors even discussed with Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa about enabling Cuomo to face Mamdani in a more straightforward matchup.
Nevertheless, Sliwa has dismissed the idea of stepping aside, and Adams reaffirmed his intention to remain in the race for a second term. This scenario might fragment the anti-Mamdani vote among three candidates.
Cuomo stated that the dynamics of the general election differ significantly from the Democratic primary, noting the changing landscape due to unrest surrounding Mamdani.
“A lot can happen between now and Election Day,” he commented, adding that the reality is that he and Mamdani are the only candidates with a real chance of winning.
“We haven’t even begun to explore what socialism really entails in New York,” he said. “Mamdani represents a radical socialist agenda, which is anti-business and anti-public safety. That’s not aligned with New York City, a hub for business.”
Mamdani, on the other hand, argues that his campaign proposes effective methods to address these criticisms, improve public safety, and ensure that New Yorkers can manage their living expenses. Over the weekend, he campaigned alongside Senator Bernie Sanders and received backing from a retired veteran of the New York Police Department on Monday.
