Rep. Jim Clyburn, a prominent figure in the Democratic Party, has endorsed Andrew Cuomo for the upcoming mayoral primary in New York City. This endorsement comes at a time when socialist candidate Zohran Mamdani is facing a mix of both criticism and support for his campaign.
Clyburn, who is 84 years old and represents South Carolina, described Cuomo as a necessary counter to former President Trump, asserting that the ex-governor possesses the experience and character to not only serve New York effectively but also to contribute positively to the nation’s future.
In his statement, Clyburn emphasized the importance of the New York mayoral role in shaping the direction of the Democratic Party. He stated, “The mayor of New York is being set up on its own to play a key role in the future of the People’s Democratic Party.”
Cuomo, who is 67 and has faced allegations of sexual harassment, responded to Clyburn’s backing by taking a swipe at Mamdani’s campaign, which he implied may be unrealistic.
He remarked, “Clyburn has always been on the right side of history… prioritizing real change.” Cuomo expressed this sentiment on social media.
Many believe that Clyburn played a crucial role in reviving Joe Biden’s presidential campaign in 2020. His endorsement of Cuomo has been reported as a way to strengthen ties with Black voters in New York.
A recent poll indicated that nearly half of Black voters are supporting Cuomo in the Democratic primary scheduled for June 24, while Mamdani and city council president Adrian Adams garnered 11% and 12% respectively.
Mamdani received a subtle show of support from Adams, although she has been careful not to openly endorse him. Adams stated that she does not support Cuomo for mayor.
Adams encouraged New Yorkers to rank Labor Family Party candidates, stating, “We don’t agree with everything… but they care deeply about this city and its future.”
Mamdani, a state legislator from Queens, has also gained the backing of the progressive former Congresswoman Yuh-Line Niou. However, another colleague, state legislator Jeffrey Dinowitz from the Bronx, advised against supporting Mamdani, criticizing his stance on Israel as disqualifying for a city with a significant Jewish population.
