Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, once considered a dominant force in city politics, is now regrouping after a stunning loss in the Democratic primary for New York City mayor. But he’s not stepping aside—at least, not yet.
Cuomo, who resigned in 2021 amid a wave of scandals, confirmed through sources Thursday night that he plans to remain in the race as an independent candidate this November. This development comes just days after Zohran Mamdani, a 33-year-old progressive Assemblyman from Queens and a self-described democratic socialist, pulled off a political earthquake, winning the primary with over 43% of the vote. Cuomo trailed behind with just over 36%.
Mamdani, who could become New York’s first Muslim mayor, surged to victory behind a bold grassroots campaign focused on affordability, social justice, and sweeping public service reforms. His candidacy was supercharged by major endorsements from progressive leaders, including Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Senator Bernie Sanders.
In his victory speech, Mamdani pledged unity, promising to serve all New Yorkers—those who supported him, backed Cuomo, or felt too disillusioned to vote at all.
Though he acknowledged defeat in the primary, Cuomo has not ruled out continuing his campaign as an independent under the “Fight & Deliver” ballot line—a position he locked in earlier this year. He faces a deadline to officially withdraw but, for now, says he’ll take a closer look at ranked-choice voting results before making a final decision.
In a statement, Cuomo said, “I will consult with my team and determine how I can best help New York City. The general election brings out a broader, more representative group of voters.”
And crowded it will be. Alongside Cuomo and Mamdani, incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, facing an uphill re-election battle under the cloud of dismissed corruption charges, is running as an independent. Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa, founder of the Guardian Angels, is also back for a second run. Add to the list: former federal prosecutor Jim Walden, also running as an independent.
Polls show a potential dead heat between Cuomo and Mamdani in a general election matchup—an indication that this race is far from over.
Cuomo leaned heavily on name recognition and union support, but ran a subdued campaign, avoiding media attention. Mamdani, on the other hand, captivated younger voters through savvy social media outreach and bold policy promises, including fare-free buses, tuition-free CUNY, rent freezes, free childcare, and even government-run grocery stores.
Mayor Adams fired back this week, framing Mamdani’s platform as unrealistic and vowing to return New York to what he calls “a city of hands up, not handouts.”
Adams’ approval ratings have plummeted, and although the Justice Department dismissed bribery and fraud charges against him, questions remain about his political future. Still, he has vowed to press forward and, notably, has aligned himself with former President Donald Trump on immigration policy.
As for Cuomo, his future in this race remains uncertain. Though battered by scandal and controversy—including a recent Justice Department probe into alleged misstatements during the pandemic—he remains a polarizing figure with deep political roots.
For now, his name will stay on the November ballot. Whether he mounts a full campaign or exits quietly could reshape the trajectory of the most unpredictable mayoral race New York City has seen in years.
We will keep tracking this story for you.
Reporting by Katy Moore.
