On Sunday, Mayor Eric Adams criticized the plans for Andrew Cuomo to run as an independent in the mayoral race, asserting that it would “waste time and divide voters,” while also expressing support for socialist candidate Zoran Mamdani.
Adams, who is also running for reelection as an independent, made his remarks during the Bolivian Day parade in Queens, suggesting that Cuomo’s candidacy is more detrimental than beneficial.
“I didn’t lose in the primary,” he pointed out, referring to Mamdani’s significant win against Cuomo in the Democratic primary last month.
“We’re moving forward, and that’s crucial,” Adams added.
When asked if he would step aside for Cuomo, Adams responded, “Are you kidding me?”
Following his comments, Adams issued a pointed press release, stating, “This sort of political maneuvering is exactly what many New Yorkers are tired of. They made their choice—he lost. Yet, he continues to focus on beating Mamdani, undermining the progress we need for our city.”
Cuomo, he argued, is an “inexperienced foe” who is wasting time and splitting voter support, suggesting that he has let the public down.
As an independent, Adams is also in the running. Cuomo’s re-entry into the race could dilute votes in the general election, potentially paving the way for Mamdani’s victory.
Mamdani, a state legislator from Queens, currently leads the race with about 35% approval, followed by Cuomo at 25%, Republican Curtis Sliwa at 14%, and Adams at 11%.
Cuomo’s spokesman, Rich Azzopaldi, defended the former governor, arguing that he still represents the best hope to defeat Mamdani.
Cuomo is reportedly planning to ask all other candidates, except Mamdani, to agree to withdraw from the race in September if they aren’t leading.
However, Sliwa criticized both Adams and Cuomo, calling attention to the fact that he is the only significant candidate from a major party.
“Andrew Cuomo has lost his primary and is retreating to the Hamptons,” he remarked. “Eric Adams has distanced himself and fled to Fort Lauderdale. Now they both want to run as independents to maintain their connection.”
In another development, Jim Walden, a former federal prosecutor running for mayor, mentioned that Cuomo is advocating for unity and collaboration among candidates for a more impactful campaign.
“I’m glad Andrew is willing to embrace my pledge,” Walden said. “We hope Eric and Curtis will also agree. It’s vital to prioritize the needs of New York over personal interests.”
