NEW YORKCITY, NY July 13 2025 – Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has announced his intention to run as an independent candidate in the New York City mayoral race, following a decisive loss to Zohran Mamdani in the Democratic primary. Cuomo’s move comes after he was defeated by more than 12 points, prompting a strategic shift to challenge Mamdani’s lead in the upcoming general election.
Cuomo’s decision to run independently aligns with a trend among high-profile Democrats, including incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, who have also chosen independent bids. This development could set the stage for a three-way contest, potentially splitting votes and complicating Mamdani’s path to victory. The former governor’s campaign strategy includes a proposal that candidates, excluding Mamdani, who are not leading in polls by mid-September should drop out, aiming to consolidate opposition against the progressive candidate.
Mamdani, a current member of the New York State Assembly and a progressive darling, has faced criticism from some corporate leaders and moderate Democrats over his policy platform, particularly his stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This scrutiny has been amplified by media coverage, with the New York Times coming under fire for a story about Mamdani’s college application race identification, which some interpret as an attempt to undermine his campaign.
Despite these challenges, Mamdani’s primary victory was a significant upset, marking him as a rising star in the Democratic Party and positioning him as a potential first Muslim and Indian American mayor of New York City. His campaign has been supported by prominent progressive figures, reflecting his commitment to policies that benefit working-class New Yorkers.
As the general election approaches, the dynamics of this race are poised to evolve, with Cuomo’s independent run adding a layer of complexity to an already contentious contest. The outcome will likely hinge on voter preferences and the ability of candidates to navigate the shifting political landscape of New York City.