Bloomberg Backs Cuomo in NYC Mayoral Race
Former New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg has thrown his support behind Andrew Cuomo in the city’s Democratic primary, asserting that it’s an ideal opportunity for Cuomo to lead the Big Apple.
“I genuinely care about our city’s future. It’s been challenging to witness the struggles since I took office, particularly post-pandemic,” Bloomberg remarked on Tuesday.
He emphasized that Cuomo’s extensive management experience and governmental knowledge set him apart from other candidates. “When it comes to expanding the competition for mayor, Andrew Cuomo stands out,” Bloomberg stated.
Bloomberg highlighted how he and Cuomo differ in their previous roles but acknowledged Cuomo’s leadership skills. “Despite our differences, I recognize Andrew’s strengths as a leader and manager. He possesses the abilities our city needs to progress,” he noted.
Interestingly, Bloomberg didn’t mention Cuomo’s competition, particularly the democratic socialist candidate Zoran Mamdani. However, Bloomberg’s close sources indicated a preference against candidates they view as anti-capitalist.
Bloomberg is optimistic about the significant achievements that have transpired, listing the redevelopment of LaGuardia Airport, the new Metro line on 2nd Avenue, and the creation of Moynihan Station.
“With decades of experience navigating both state and federal governments, Cuomo approaches governance pragmatically, prioritizing problem-solving over ideological battles,” Bloomberg commented.
He articulated a clear choice for New Yorkers: “The question isn’t who is the perfect choice; it’s who is the best choice? For me, that’s Andrew Cuomo.” This endorsement follows a series of significant donations from Bloomberg’s allies to Cuomo’s campaign.
Ed Skyler, a former deputy mayor under Bloomberg and currently at Citigroup, recently donated $400. He mentioned that he might have sat out the race if a poll hadn’t shown Mamdani closely trailing Cuomo.
A recent poll indicated that the gap between Cuomo and Mamdani has narrowed, with numbers shifting from 51% to 49% for Cuomo within a 3-point margin of error.
Cuomo’s internal campaign surveys suggest that he defeated Mamdani by 12 points in the ranked choice voting scenario released on Monday.
Skyler, who has transitioned from Republican to independent and previously sought the mayoral position himself, expressed concerns over public safety and economic development. In his view, New York City would be better served by experienced leaders rather than those lacking governance experience.
Bloomberg’s support comes as Mamdani, a Palestinian activist from Queens, has faced criticism for his stance against Israel, further complicating the race dynamics. Sources close to Bloomberg mentioned Mamdani’s connections to a post concerning boycotts against the Cornell Tech Campus due to its partnership with an Israeli institution.
In a show of solidarity for Cuomo, Skyler has emerged as one of Bloomberg’s newer allies. Recently, Emma Bloomberg, the former mayor’s daughter, contributed significantly to Cuomo’s campaign, offering $2,100.
The political landscape continues to shift, with Bloomberg’s advisors, including Kevin Sheekey who managed Bloomberg’s presidential bid, also contributing to Cuomo’s campaign efforts. Notably, Thomas Secunda, a co-founder of Bloomberg LP, donated $40,000 to the pro-Cuomo Super PAC Fix The City.
