The influential teachers union in New York City has announced its backing for Democratic mayoral candidate Zoran Mamdani. This decision emerged following a primary vote by its members.
According to two insiders, around 200,000 union members will express support for Mamdani as the Democratic primary results were finalized this week.
Initially, the union had withstood backing him due to a split between the 33-year-old state legislator, who identifies as a democratic socialist, and former governor Andrew Cuomo.
Cuomo, known for his support of charter schools during his governorship, has seen diminished backing for UFT PET initiatives, which include community schools, early childhood education, and class size reductions—all part of a 25-point education plan he implemented seemingly to win over union favor.
The union’s endorsement follows decisions from other influential organizations, like the Hotel Trade Council and local 32BJ, which previously supported Cuomo in the primary before backing Democratic candidates.
After suffering a significant defeat to Mamdani, a Cuomo campaign official stated they would “continue to evaluate the current landscape for the benefit of New Yorkers.” Insiders have indicated that Cuomo may not pursue a general election campaign unless a clear path to victory presents itself.
UFT Principal Michael Margreu, who is part of the Central Labour Council board, noted that this local union federation recently endorsed Mamdani after he overcame the former governor.
A representative from UFT commented, “Political backing is determined by our representatives. The DA will meet in a few weeks to discuss the upcoming general election.”
