Independent mayoral hopeful Andrew Cuomo is suggesting openness to forming a bipartisan administration, potentially including his Republican rival, Curtis Sliwa, in a significant city government role if elected.
Cuomo’s overture, alluded to during a radio segment on Tuesday, arrives as he attempts to catch up to Democratic frontrunner Zohran Mamdani in the polls with the November 4 general election drawing near.
Polling Shows Cuomo Thriving Without Sliwa
Mamdani has held a consistent double-digit advantage since his sweeping primary win in June, making him the leading contender in this three-way contest. However, a recent AARP/Gotham Polling & Analytics survey found that the race could get much tighter if Sliwa exited.
The poll shows Mamdani’s margin could shrink to just four points—within the margin of error—if it became a head-to-head matchup with Cuomo.
These results have energized centrists in both parties, with some encouraging Sliwa to step down to build stronger opposition to Mamdani.
GOP Influencers Back Cuomo Alliance
Leading calls for Sliwa’s withdrawal is billionaire John Catsimatidis, owner of Red Apple Media and WABC Radio, where Sliwa hosts his show. Catsimatidis, appearing live on Sid Rosenberg’s show Monday, urged Sliwa to step aside to give Cuomo a viable pathway.
On Tuesday, Cuomo joined Rosenberg and expressed interest in joining forces with Sliwa. Asked whether he might offer Sliwa a City Hall role, Cuomo first hesitated but later indicated he would be open to collaboration.
“That’s something I’d consider,” Cuomo said. “This city needs unity. We must work together as New Yorkers.”
Sliwa Refuses to Back Down
Cuomo’s latest remarks contrast with his earlier denial of any deal during a chat with businessman Elisha Wiesel.
Despite mounting encouragement to drop out, Sliwa’s campaign stands resolute. “Curtis Sliwa will not drop out,” stated spokesperson Daniel Kurzyna. “Everyone can comment, but the decision rests with the voters in 15 days.”
Republican Party Backs Sliwa Firmly
On Tuesday, all five Republican county chairs in NYC issued a collective statement reaffirming support for Sliwa’s candidacy.
They stressed that their base would not accept an alliance with Cuomo, whom they still view as strongly tied to his former Democratic role.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.