Super PAC Targets Voters in Adams’ Favor
A super PAC backing Mayor Eric Adams’ re-election is planning to reach out to tens of thousands of voters. They aim to remind them that former Governor Andrew Cuomo is a “painful loser,” emphasizing that only Adams can stand against the socialist challenger, Zohran Mamdani.
According to the PAC, “Cuomo isn’t just a loser; he’s a painful loser. That alone doesn’t sit well with people.” They further add that Cuomo lost significantly to Mamdani in the primaries and is likely to face defeat again.
The PAC, led by seasoned strategist Hank Sheinkopf, points out that Cuomo suffered a severe setback, ultimately resigning due to sexual harassment allegations. In contrast, they praise Mayor Adams as someone who has matured into his role, showcasing his successes as police captain, borough president, and currently as mayor.
Cuomo was unexpectedly outdone by Mamdani in the Democratic primary this past June, preventing him from facing Adams as an independent candidate in the upcoming election on November 4th. Despite this, Cuomo has decided against dropping out of the race, even amidst Mamdani’s criticisms.
The Democrats will be up against GOP candidate Curtis Sliwa. The super PAC argues that Adams’ recent unpopularity during various investigations doesn’t overshadow his potential to win back New Yorkers, as they emphasize the risks posed by Mamdani.
The campaign plans to conduct live calls targeting voters from the state legislative district where Cuomo had previously won in the primaries, despite his overall loss to Mamdani.
In other efforts, parents are trying to sway Republican voters in support of Adams, highlighting Sliwa as a devoted New Yorker concerned about the city’s welfare. Yet, a notable tweet from former President Trump indicated he wasn’t looking for a symbolic victory with Sliwa.
Campaign strategist Sheinkopf insists that Cuomo can’t position himself as the preferable alternative to Mamdani in terms of law and order. Initial live call efforts are projected to cost around $75,000, with potential for additional funding to bring that number to $150,000.
The Cuomo campaign has dismissed the idea that Adams is the real victor, suggesting that his current polling support is dismally low. A spokesperson for Cuomo articulated disbelief regarding Adams’ struggle to gather voter enthusiasm, labeling it as “Gutter Politics.”
Recent polling indicated that Mamdani is leading with 41.8% voter support in the forthcoming general election, with Cuomo at 23.4%, Sliwa at 16.5%, and Adams trailing at 8.8%.
The Sliwa campaign responded critically to Adams, asserting, “Adams’ campaign is chaotic. Just look at the numbers; Curtis is the one attracting attention while Adams seems out of touch.” They argue that while Curtis is concentrating on constructive plans for the city, Adams should refocus his efforts as well.
In light of these events, Sheinkopf hopes to initiate a significant grassroots outreach, aiming for two million pro-Adams calls and door-to-door visits before Election Day. His past connections with Cuomo’s campaign emerge as an interesting backdrop to this competitive landscape.
