NEW YORK — In a surprise political twist just two days before early voting begins, Mayor Eric Adams has formally endorsed former Governor Andrew Cuomo in his effort to return to public office. The move signals a sharp realignment in the city’s mayoral race and a dramatic pivot in the relationship between two political rivals.
From Foes to Allies
Only weeks ago, Adams referred to Cuomo as a “snake and a liar.” Now, the two are publicly united against a common political threat: progressive challenger Zohran Mamdani. Their newly-formed alliance was cemented courtside at a Knicks game, followed quickly by Adams’ public endorsement.
“This is about protecting the family,” Adams said, implying that party unity outweighs past grievances. The mayor, who dropped out of the race earlier this fall, has pledged to campaign alongside Cuomo in the final stretch.
Anti-Socialist Messaging Heats Up
Both Cuomo and Adams are sounding alarms about Mamdani, a Democratic Socialist who has gained traction among younger, more progressive voters. Cuomo has gone on record warning of Mamdani’s “lack of experience” and suggested that electing him could be dangerous in times of crisis.
“God forbid another 9/11,” Cuomo said. “Can you imagine Mamdani in the seat?”
Mamdani quickly fired back, accusing Cuomo of Islamophobia for drawing connections between his faith and national security threats. “To say that by virtue of your faith, you are worthy of suspicion — it’s deeply disappointing, but not surprising,” Mamdani said.
Polarizing Reactions and Accusations of Corruption
Not everyone sees the Adams-Cuomo alliance as a political necessity. Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa denounced the endorsement as “corruption past, present, and future,” adding that Cuomo and Adams “could co-author ‘The Art of the Steal.’”
The Cuomo campaign, meanwhile, has brushed off criticism. Cuomo insists his remarks were mischaracterized and points instead to Mamdani’s associations with controversial figures like commentator Hasan Piker, who once claimed America “deserved 9/11.” Cuomo called that “another problem” voters should consider.
The Final Push
Mayor Adams, still influential in key minority communities, is expected to be an asset to Cuomo’s turnout strategy. “I’m giving it my all,” Adams said, signaling plans to appear at campaign stops in the coming days.
Early voting begins Saturday. The election is set for November 4.
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Mathew Alvarez joined Rockland Daily News as a reporter in March 2020, but he’s no stranger to Rockland County. He grew up in New City and graduated from Ball State’s College of Communication, Information, and Media.
