New York Democratic Representative Tom Suozzi has endorsed former New York Governor and independent candidate for New York City mayor Andrew Cuomo over Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani.
Newsweek reached out to Mamdani’s campaign via email on Wednesday for comment.
Why It Matters
With just days until the city’s mayoral election on November 4, numerous polls show Mamdani, a Democratic socialist and first-time citywide candidate, holding a notable lead over his rivals, Cuomo and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa.
The race has garnered national attention as analysts say the outcome could likely influence policy priorities on critical issues like affordability and crime, to the city’s relationship with President Donald Trump, along with the national Democratic Party.
What To Know
Taking to X, Suozzi said, “I’m a Democratic Capitalist, not a Democratic Socialist. I endorse Andrew Cuomo. I can not back a declared socialist with a thin resume to run the most complex city in America. We need leaders who will fight crime, not undermine the police. Who will create jobs, not harm the economy. Who will keep taxes down, not make it more expensive for middle class families to live here.”
Cuomo reacted to the endorsement on X, saying, “Thank you for the endorsement, @Tom_Suozzi — together we can save the city. Get out and vote, NY!!!!”
Last month, Suozzi announced he would not be backing Mamdani but did not go as far as to formally back Cuomo. Suozzi has said he disagrees with socialist ideas but does share Mamdani’s concern about the city’s affordability issue.
In a prior post on X in September, Suozzi said in part, “I will not be endorsing Mamdani. While I share his concern about the issue of affordability, I fundamentally disagree with his proposed solutions. Like the voters I represent, I believe socialism has consistently failed to deliver real, sustainable progress.”
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What People Are Saying
Trump on Truth Social last month: “Self proclaimed New York City Communist, Zohran Mamdani, who is running for Mayor, will prove to be one of the best things to ever happen to our great Republican Party. He is going to have problems with Washington like no Mayor in the history of our once great City. Remember, he needs the money from me, as President, in order to fulfill all of his FAKE Communist promises. He won’t be getting any of it, so what’s the point of voting for him? This ideology has failed, always, for thousands of years. It will fail again, and that’s guaranteed! President DJT”
Mamdani on X on Tuesday: “Politicians are not bystanders to the affordability crisis. We can lower the cost of living and make life easier for New Yorkers in real and meaningful ways.”
Cuomo on X this week: “New Yorkers, WE WILL WIN this election. Not just for ourselves, not just for our families, but for our city, our state, and our country. Early voting is underway. Cast your vote and show the power of unity in our beautiful city at the polls. Together, we’ll keep New York moving forward.”
Sliwa on X on Wednesday: “This city is worth fighting for. New Yorkers are worth fighting for. I’m the only candidate who will fight for YOU, not the special interests.”
What Happens Next
Early voting for the mayoral race is underway as election day remains six days out.
Update 10/29/25 2:37 p.m. ET: This article has been updated with additional information.