Recent support from Brooklyn Democrats for Republican mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa has stirred frustration among party activists, particularly relating to Andrew Cuomo’s efforts to make a political comeback.
During the opening of Sliwa’s campaign office on Flatbush Avenue on September 14, Congress member Jamie Williams spoke highly of Sliwa, suggesting he was the right choice for her constituents while putting down her Democratic rivals.
“From day one, Curtis has stood with our community. We know what both Andrew Cuomo and Eric Adams have done to us,” Williams stated in a video recorded at the event.
She emphasized their aim to support effective candidates, adding, “We’re here to fight for you.”
Williams joined forces with community leaders to address issues like homelessness and support for residents in various neighborhoods, including those dealing with immigration challenges and housing concerns in southern Brooklyn.
She commended the efforts of the Guardian Angels and local Civic Patrol volunteers that Sliwa established.
“We need representatives we can trust, not those tied to negative behaviors. Curtis truly represents our community and all New Yorkers,” she remarked.
Following Williams’ remarks, some Democratic activists formed a new political club, expressing their dissatisfaction. In an open letter, they urged Williams to reconsider her support for Sliwa.
Aisata Diallo, a co-founder of the Canarsie Democracy Club, called her decision to back a Republican concerning, questioning how it aligns with the commitments she’s made as a Democrat.
The letter referenced New York’s Democratic Party rules that discourage public opposition to Democratic candidates by party members. Diallo pointed out that Williams’ support for Sliwa undermines both the party’s unity and its efforts to connect with the communities they represent.
“This could create serious internal conflicts and damage our reliability within the caucus,” she noted.
In a follow-up, Williams clarified her stance, insisting her support for Sliwa was not formal. “Curtis showed up for me. I supported him out of respect, not as an official endorsement,” she said, emphasizing the importance of doing what she believes is right.
Describing herself as a “conservative Democrat,” Williams expressed her unwillingness to back more progressive candidates like Zohran Mamdani.
While Cuomo, like incumbent Mayor Adams, is running independently in the upcoming election, Williams characterized her relationship with Mamdani as respectful, acknowledging his hard work, but she rejected his socialist policies.
Williams, who garnered mixed support from Republicans and conservatives, highlighted that even the state Democratic chairman did not endorse Mamdani.
“Ultimately, my focus is on what my constituents expect from me,” she asserted.
Brooklyn Democratic Party Chair Rodney Bicotte, who supports Mamdani, was critical of Williams’ comments. His spokesperson indicated that her support for Sliwa did not align with the party’s values.
However, Sliwa expressed gratitude towards Williams, claiming her support was “absolutely invaluable,” and she offered her help for any challenges Williams may face in the future.
