Andrew Cuomo, a Democratic candidate for mayor in New York City, stated on Monday that he believes President Trump is actually hoping for a win by his competitor, Zohran Mamdani, in the upcoming general election.
During an interview on ABC’s “Views,” Cuomo refuted the idea that Trump would gain from his own potential victory. He argued that if Mamdani wins, it could strengthen Trump’s position before the midterms, providing him with a reason to take control of another city governed by Democrats.
“He wants Mamdani for two reasons,” Cuomo explained. “First, as I prepare for the midterm elections, I’ve seen Mamdani used as a symbol, with Trump showcasing him across the country. It suggests that Democrats have shifted to something extreme, portraying them as anti-police and in favor of drug legalization.”
“The second reason plays into Trump’s strategy,” he added. “It gives him the pretext he needs to exert control over New York.”
There has been talk of Trump considering the deployment of federal troops to other Democrat-led cities, including New York.
Recently, he remarked that Mamdani’s potential victory would be “one of the best things that have happened to our great Republicans,” threatening to withhold city funding if a Democratic Socialist were to take office.
“He’s been facing difficulties with Washington like no other mayor in this historically significant city,” Trump commented on Mamdani last month.
“Remember, he needs funds from me as president to promise all his unrealistic socialist plans. Without it, why would anyone vote for him?”
Mamdani responded by suggesting that Trump’s acknowledgment of a possible Democratic Socialist victory in his home city reflects a series of emotional stages.
“Initially, it’s denial that this situation could arise. Now, it’s clear he’s beginning to accept it. However, he still seems determined to leverage all available means to ensure Andrew Cuomo becomes the next mayor.”
