New York City at a Crossroads
New York City seems to be reaching a breaking point. Many residents are feeling the strain of increased corruption, chaos, and extreme ideologies. However, there’s an alternative—me.
Zoran Mamdani, a self-proclaimed socialist, has ideas that even seasoned Democrats find concerning.
Back in 2021, I cautioned that current mayor Eric Adams would be embroiled in corruption. Unfortunately, people brushed it off. Since then, we’ve witnessed numerous resignations, arrests, and a troubling pay-to-play environment that has effectively drained City Hall of integrity. As a result, essential services have suffered, and hardworking New Yorkers are feeling the impact.
Former Governor Andrew Cuomo, amidst scandal and sexual harassment claims, resigned, leaving behind a legacy that contributed to the rising crime rates New Yorkers face today—thanks to his controversial reforms like bail changes and the HALT Act.
Cuomo’s policies have unfairly targeted small property owners, his energy policies have closed Indian Point leading to higher utility bills, and his congestion pricing penalizes everyday commuters.
This is the reality that residents already know. Cuomo and Mamdani, while different in labels, produce the same outcomes: rising costs, dwindling safety, and policies that defy common sense.
I’m Curtis Sliwa. Unlike career politicians, I’ve spent over 45 years in these streets—riding the subways, patrolling my neighborhoods, and defending people when they needed it most. I founded the Guardian Angels with courage and a red beret. I’ve often said, “If you do nothing, you only empower the gangs.”
As I’ve traveled through all districts, including areas where Mamdani is popular, I see potential for change.
If I become mayor, my priorities will include restoring public safety and making New York more affordable. This will involve hiring 7,000 police officers, trimming unnecessary agency budgets, tackling corruption, and ensuring that funds go to vital services, not to political allies.
Within the NYPD, I will eliminate nepotism and politically motivated promotions, prioritizing merit and leadership instead.
Affordability has to be our focus. Families are being crushed under rising taxes and fees, and City Hall isn’t making it any easier. By cutting waste and returning savings to the taxpayers, we’ll lower taxes across the board. I’ll streamline permitting processes, address the property tax quagmire, offer enhanced support for seniors, and control water and city fees.
We also need a genuine shift in education. We currently spend over $42,000 per student yearly, yet a significant number struggle with basic reading and math. My plan includes reducing the bloated Department of Education bureaucracy and redirecting funds to classrooms. I aim to enhance educational standards and introduce a parent-managed education account, allowing families to tap into funding for approved learning options, including private schools if they choose.
Let’s end inefficient development plans that cater only to insiders and instead focus on smarter constructions that respect existing neighborhoods.
We need to improve overall quality of life. We’ll clean up our streets, tackle illegal vending, regulate illicit smoking shops, reclaim subway spaces for passengers, and ensure real punishments for animal abusers.
Governments should live within their means and be held accountable. I plan to introduce a citywide performance dashboard so New Yorkers can easily assess what works and what doesn’t. Transparency will be key: making contracts public, banning unethical pay-to-play practices, and auditing agency performance.
I’ve consistently maintained a presence in every community, and I’m committed to continuing that. Residents want a city hall that truly serves them—one that is safe, affordable, and operational. Unlike others in this race, I have been dedicated to serving the public without needing a title.
This upcoming election transcends mere political ideologies. It’s about what’s right versus wrong. You shouldn’t have to choose the lesser evil; you can choose change instead.
Imagine what I could achieve when given the opportunity. It could make a significant difference.
