Key Takeaways:
• Zohran Mamdani ridiculed Andrew Cuomo after President Trump’s surprising pick.
• Trump called Mamdani a “communist” and said he’d choose Cuomo if forced.
• Mamdani turned the Trump endorsement into a sign of Cuomo’s weakness.
• Cuomo’s campaign faltered amid leaked audio and racist attacks.
• A surge in young voters may seal Mamdani’s lead on election day.
In a recent TV interview, President Trump stunned New Yorkers by naming former governor Andrew Cuomo his pick for mayor. He said he’d rather have the “bad Democrat” than a “communist.” That Trump endorsement felt like a backhanded compliment for Cuomo—and a gift to his rival, Zohran Mamdani.
Assembly member Zohran Mamdani wasted no time mocking that Trump endorsement. He posted a sarcastic “congratulations” on social media. In his view, winning the president’s support in a blue city proves Cuomo’s weak standing.
How the Trump Endorsement Shook Up the Race
During the “60 Minutes” interview, Trump criticized both candidates. He labeled Mamdani a communist and called Cuomo “not great.” Yet he admitted he’d choose Cuomo if he had no other option. This odd Trump endorsement had two effects. First, it reminded voters how unpopular Trump is in New York City. Second, it highlighted how close Cuomo came to seeking help from a political foe.
Moreover, a leaked audio from a Hamptons fundraiser showed Cuomo expecting favors from Trump if he ran as an independent. That clip confirmed rumors of late-stage talks between the two. As a result, many Democrats felt uneasy about Cuomo’s loyalty to their party. Meanwhile, Mamdani gained ground by pointing out every misstep.
Why Mamdani Seized on the Trump Endorsement
Mamdani saw an opening and jumped right in. He posted on social media: “Congratulations, Andrew Cuomo! I know how hard you worked for this.” His jab reminded people that Trump remains deeply unpopular in the city he once led. Indeed, polls show Mamdani holding a strong lead over Cuomo and GOP candidate Curtis Sliwa.
By mocking the Trump endorsement, Mamdani underlined Cuomo’s lack of genuine support among Democrats. He also painted Cuomo as someone willing to cozy up to Trump’s extreme views. In short order, that Trump endorsement became a symbol of Cuomo’s political desperation.
Cuomo’s Campaign under Fire
Meanwhile, Cuomo’s team faced fresh controversies. In leaked fundraiser audio, Cuomo boasted about possible aid from Trump. He then implied mass protests against Trump immigration agents were overblown. Critics accused him of sympathizing with Trump’s harsh tactics.
On top of this, Cuomo resorted to racist attacks against Mamdani. He suggested Mamdani “doesn’t understand New York culture” because he spent time in Uganda and holds dual citizenship. Even worse, Cuomo seemed to agree with a radio host who said Mamdani “would be cheering” a repeat of 9/11. Such comments drew fierce backlash. Mamdani responded that these were “racist attacks” from a man clinging to his final public moments.
What Voters Are Doing Now
Early voting hit record highs this year. More than 735,000 New Yorkers cast ballots before election day. That marks the highest turnout for any non-presidential race here. In the final days, young voters poured in. Over 100,000 people under age 35 voted from Friday to Sunday, including 45,000 on the last day alone.
Political experts say this youth surge is good news for Mamdani. Young New Yorkers tend to favor more progressive candidates. They also strongly oppose Trump’s policies. Thus, Cuomo’s strange Trump endorsement may drive even more young people to back Mamdani.
Looking Ahead to Election Day
Tuesday night will decide New York City’s next mayor. With Mamdani leading in polls, Cuomo faces an uphill battle. His reliance on a Trump endorsement and racial attacks may alienate key voters. Meanwhile, Mamdani’s criticism of that Trump endorsement continues to resonate.
However, elections can change quickly. A strong turnout among older or moderate Democrats could tighten the race. Still, the latest data suggests Mamdani holds a clear advantage. Regardless of the final count, the debate over that Trump endorsement will go down as a defining moment in the campaign.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did President Trump say about Cuomo and Mamdani?
In a CBS interview, Trump criticized both candidates. Yet he said he’d choose Cuomo over Mamdani, whom he labeled a “communist.”
How did Mamdani react to the Trump endorsement?
Mamdani mocked Cuomo by posting a sarcastic “congratulations” online. He argued that Trump’s support only highlighted Cuomo’s weak base.
Why is youth turnout important in this race?
Young voters favor progressive policies and oppose Trump. Their record early voting surge may boost Mamdani’s chances.
Has Cuomo faced other controversies?
Yes. Leaked audio showed him expecting help from Trump. He also made comments seen as racist toward Mamdani.