Adams to Campaign Alongside Cuomo Ahead of November Election
New York City Mayor Eric Adams is expected to officially endorse former Governor Andrew Cuomo in the city’s upcoming mayoral election, according to a statement from Adams’ spokesperson Todd Shapiro. The endorsement marks a significant political development just weeks before voters head to the polls in November.
“As spokesman for Mayor Eric Adams, I can confirm that the Mayor will endorse former Governor Andrew M. Cuomo for mayor and intends to campaign alongside him,” Shapiro told NBC New York. “The time and locations for their joint appearances are currently being finalized.”
Both Adams and Cuomo, longtime Democrats, initially launched independent campaigns as third-party candidates against Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani, a state legislator. However, Adams suspended his campaign last month, citing a lack of a viable path to victory.
Former Rivals Turn Allies
The endorsement signals a major turnaround in the relationship between the two politicians, who once sparred publicly during the race. Adams had previously called Cuomo “a snake and a liar” in early September, shortly before announcing his withdrawal from the contest. The two were seen together at a New York Knicks game on Wednesday night, following Cuomo’s appearance at the final mayoral debate — a public display of unity that fueled speculation ahead of the announcement.
Adams confirmed last week on “The Reset Talk Show” that he had been in discussions with Cuomo and was “waiting to make a final decision” on an endorsement. His support for Cuomo appears to stem from shared concerns about Mamdani’s progressive policies, which Adams has repeatedly criticized.
Mamdani Responds, Polls Still Favor Him
Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani responded to the news with a sharp post on X, calling the move “The Art of the Deal.” Despite Cuomo’s growing presence in the race, Mamdani continues to lead in most major polls.
A recent Fox News survey released before the first mayoral debate showed Mamdani ahead with 49% of registered New York City voters, compared with Cuomo’s 28% and Republican Curtis Sliwa’s 13%. While some newer polls suggest narrowing margins since Adams exited the race, Mamdani still maintains a comfortable double-digit lead.
Cuomo’s Political Comeback Attempt
For Cuomo, the endorsement represents an opportunity to reclaim political relevance following his resignation as governor in 2021 amid harassment allegations, which he continues to deny. His campaign has positioned him as an experienced leader who can navigate the city’s post-pandemic challenges, including housing shortages, crime, and economic recovery.
With Adams’ endorsement and active campaigning, Cuomo could see a surge in support from moderate Democrats and centrist voters who previously backed the mayor. Whether that momentum will be enough to close Mamdani’s polling advantage, however, remains to be seen as New York’s high-stakes mayoral race heads into its final stretch.