Actor Michael Rapaport has declared his intention to run for mayor of New York City in 2029. “I’m not messing around,” he said, highlighting concerns about the incoming mayor.
During a recent episode of the i am rapaport stereo podcast, he stated, “I’m planning to run for mayor of New York in the next few years.”
He explained his motivation by noting, “I’m making this announcement now because, in just a few hours, Zoran is going to be sworn in as the new mayor. I can’t just sit back and see what this so-called artist and second-rate con artist will do. It’s time for action.”
Rapaport expressed frustration, saying the next election is still “a few years away,” but made it clear that he wants the new mayor to be aware: “I want him to understand I’m coming for him.”
“I’m here to take back New York City from him and his team of phony artists,” he stated. “I’m officially announcing my candidacy. Mayor Rapaport? It might not sound great to everyone, but I’m serious about it.”
“I’m not joking around. I’m not playing games,” he added. “I plan to kick off my campaign in 2028.”
Looking ahead, he commented, “In 2029, Zoran is going to face real trouble. I can’t believe he’ll actually be the mayor of New York City, my city.”
Rapaport emphasized that his campaign’s foundation is about the reality of costs in the city. “Nothing is free in New York City, not under Zoran’s leadership,” he said. “I want to make it clear that promises can’t guarantee anything for free.”
“My priority is to protect New Yorkers. I’ll do everything in my power to make New York City safer, more affordable, and thriving,” he said.
He also stressed the importance of accountability, saying, “If mistakes are made, you should admit them, apologize, and strive for improvement.”
“I won’t lie to you. I’m not going to put on a happy face and sell you false hopes,” the actor explained. “This is the core of my platform. I plan to start my campaign around mid-2028, and 2029 is going to be my year.”
Rapaport reassured listeners, “I know many of you think I’m joking, but I’m not.”
Last month, he criticized incoming Mayor Zoran Mamdani, saying he’s not genuine in rejecting calls for Hamas to disarm, labeling Mamdani as “a piece of nonsense.”
He accused the young Democratic socialist of being insincere, driven by empty promises and focus group feedback, claiming, “He’s pretending to be one of us.”
Rapaport declared, “This guy wants New Yorkers to believe he’s relatable, but he’s not from here—he doesn’t act, talk, or live like us. Zoran is just a walking LinkedIn profile trying to fit in.”
He concluded, “He’s like a New Yorker impersonator with a script of fake smiles and hollow promises. Everything he says seems like a desperate attempt for attention. If things go south, he’ll just pass the blame.”
