Staten Island Democrats Rally Behind Zoran Mamdani
In what some are calling a political “shotgun wedding,” the Democratic leader of Staten Island, known for its conservative leanings, is backing Zoran Mamdani. This support follows a primary where they previously supported former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who is now running as an independent.
“Zoran is a Democratic candidate. Voters have spoken,” remarked Laura Robianco Sword, the chair of the borough’s Democratic Party.
She emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating their aim is to ensure Staten Island has a seat at the table.
Mamdani’s campaign has announced a significant effort for the upcoming general election, launching on August 17, as Democratic socialists seem eager to build on his support.
While Mamdani has gained traction across the five boroughs, Cuomo’s campaign appears to be faltering, marred by his history of scandals and controversies. The sentiment in New York seems to lean towards moving beyond Cuomo’s past, which was rife with issues.
Having won a notable primary victory as an outsider, Mamdani aims to solidify and expand his reach as he approaches the general election.
Chairman of the Brooklyn Democratic Party, Rodney Bicotte, initially backed Cuomo but switched support to Mamdani after his primary win.
Insiders note that Mamdani is also engaging with leaders from Queens, especially those representing predominantly Black districts that previously leaned toward Cuomo.
Robianco Sword believes that Mamdani is attracting new voters to the Democratic Party, hoping to carry that momentum through the election.
The borough’s Democratic leadership acknowledges that Mamdani has identified significant issues affecting city residents, although opinions may vary regarding some of his more controversial proposals, like opening government-run grocery stores in five districts. She recognized the presence of “food deserts” in certain neighborhoods.
When discussing his plan to increase taxes on billionaires and businesses by $9 billion to fund fareless public transportation, childcare, and housing, she mentioned that the wealthy “should pay their fair shares.”
Cuomo managed to secure more votes than Mamdani in Richmond County during the primary, though the split was relatively close: 46.5% to 37.5%.
Michael Tannousis, Chairman of the Staten Island Republican Party, described the Mamdani alliance as a “shotgun wedding,” indicating skepticism about the union.
Many moderate Democrats are reportedly leaning toward Republican candidate Curtis Swa, who previously garnered 65% of the borough’s vote against Adams in 2021, although Adams won elsewhere and secured the mayorship, representing the Democratic Party.
Tannousis expressed doubts about the appeal of a socialist agenda among local voters, asserting that Curtis will likely perform even better this election cycle.
Meanwhile, Curtis Swa is committed to campaigning vigorously in Staten Island, not taking any votes for granted. He expressed that losing Staten Island would be a significant setback, emphasizing his long-standing presence in the area.
He criticized the current administration’s approach toward immigration shelters and pointed out Cuomo’s tarnished legacy as a primary factor drawing attention to Mamdani as his main competitor.
