Cuomo Faces Pressure to Withdraw After Primary Loss
A well-known New York business leader who backed Andrew Cuomo hopes that he will step aside following a significant defeat in the Democratic mayoral primary.
As the former governor assesses his political future, at least one key executive reached out to Cuomo on Wednesday morning. They suggested he reconsider his campaign for the city’s sake. Other supporters from the business sector are expected to follow suit soon.
“He’s been destroyed—our best chance is Adams,” remarked a notable figure in NYC’s business community. “Losing Harlem? How did that happen?”
Another supporter expressed a similar sentiment: “He had his chance. That’s done.”
After Zohran Mamdani’s significant win over socialists in the Democratic primary, Cuomo is reportedly reviewing voting data to decide whether to run as an independent in the upcoming general election.
Some believe that this could be Cuomo’s last opportunity to salvage his political career, especially since the votes suggest the current mayor, Eric Adams, might not be viable as an independent candidate.
Even Cuomo himself acknowledged to those who spoke with him post-defeat that his future hinges on “whatever the polls say,” and that withdrawing is a distinct possibility.
Democratic consultant Hank Sheinkopf forecasts that Cuomo will likely realize he cannot overturn history. Sheinkopf also noted that if Cuomo persists in the race, it might further divide the moderate vote between Adams and GOP contender Curtis Sliwa.
“What options does he really have?” Sheinkopf asked.
Cuomo appears cautious, maintaining a low profile for now. On Wednesday morning, he was in touch with supporters in the business sector. Adams believes that certain groups “can’t vote,” according to sources.
Cuomo has implied that Adams may face additional scrutiny regarding his ethical conduct, especially since the current mayor has dealt with legal issues. Should Adams falter, it could provide Cuomo an opportunity, enhancing his prospects in a potential three-way race.
Cuomo is reportedly relying on business community support as a strategy against Adams. Many business leaders have indicated that they would consider leaving New York if Mamdani were to win, citing concerns about his economic proposals and views.
Despite this, support from the business sector may not fully compensate for the blow he experienced in the primary.
One thing remains clear: GOP nominee Curtis Sliwa hasn’t backed down.
“Back in 1992, Gambino told me to shut my mouth,” he recalled of a previous assassination attempt against him, “Five hollow bullets came back licking.”
