“Cuomo’s Comeback Bid Continues: Launches Independent Run Against Mamdani”

 

Cuomo Presses On in NYC Mayor’s Race as Independent After Losing Democratic Primary to Mamdani

Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo is not stepping away from the political stage just yet. After losing the Democratic primary for New York City mayor to progressive candidate Zohran Mamdani, Cuomo announced he will stay in the race as an independent, hoping to chart a comeback despite a turbulent past and a shifting political landscape.

In a video message released on Monday, Cuomo made his intentions clear: he’s not backing down. The former governor framed his decision as a stand against what he described as "empty promises and slogans" from Mamdani, who has gained momentum among younger and more progressive voters. “New York needs real solutions, not just rhetoric,” Cuomo said in the video. “Our city deserves better than soundbites.”

Cuomo’s decision to continue his campaign comes nearly four years after he resigned from the governor’s office amid multiple allegations of sexual harassment — accusations that he has consistently denied but which forced him out amid mounting pressure from political allies and opponents alike. Since then, Cuomo has largely kept a low profile, occasionally making public appearances and offering commentary on state and national issues. His mayoral bid has been seen by many as an attempt to repair his public image and return to political relevance.

Losing the Democratic primary to Mamdani — a rising star in New York’s left-wing political scene and a current State Assembly member from Queens — was a major setback. Mamdani ran a grassroots campaign focused on affordable housing, public transit, and reimagining public safety, gaining the support of a diverse, energized base that has been pushing the Democratic Party in New York further to the left.

Cuomo, by contrast, tried to appeal to more centrist and moderate Democrats, casting himself as a seasoned leader with the experience to handle the city's challenges — from public safety to homelessness and economic recovery. But that message didn’t resonate enough with primary voters, especially in an electorate increasingly skeptical of establishment figures.

Now running as an independent, Cuomo faces an uphill battle. New York City’s political landscape heavily favors Democrats, and independent candidates rarely gain traction in such high-profile races. Still, Cuomo appears undeterred, signaling that his campaign will focus on reaching disaffected voters who may feel left out of the current political conversation.

“I’ve never been one to walk away from a fight,” Cuomo said. “The people of New York City know me. They know I show up when things get tough.”

Political analysts are divided on whether Cuomo can make a serious impact in the general election. Some believe his name recognition and long history in New York politics could give him an edge among moderate voters. Others argue that the shadow of his resignation and the rise of candidates like Mamdani leave little room for a Cuomo resurgence.

What’s clear is that Cuomo’s independent bid will further shake up an already dynamic and unpredictable mayoral race — and possibly redefine the battle lines between the city’s progressive and centrist factions.