In some ways out of the headlines, Andrew Cuomo is attempting a dramatic political comeback. He now finds himself leading the race to become the next New York City mayor. Painted here, credibly or not, as a disgraced former titan of American politics. Previously, he’d been Secretary of HUD and New York Attorney General before taking over as governor in 2011. His political career suffered a serious blow in 2021 when he had to resign in the wake of a sexual harassment scandal. Now on the political defensive, Cuomo is trying to repair those alliances and win back favor, even with the leaders who once urged his resignation.
Zohran Mamdani, a 33-year-old state legislator, has quickly proven himself to be a serious threat in the race. Born in Uganda to parents of Indian descent, Mamdani has served his local district on the state assembly since 2021. In the process, he’s been able to deepen his support among the party’s more progressive elements. His local chapter of the Democratic Socialists for America (DSA) has endorsed him too. This election is shaping up to be a make-or-break moment for the Democratic Party establishment in New York City. It exemplifies a larger ideological battle between grassroots, progressive activists and the old school establishment.
The Rise of Andrew Cuomo
Cuomo’s political career has had its triumphs and tragedies. After serving his resignation in disgrace, most suspected his time in elective politics was over. He has spent the last two years re-establishing trust with past supporters, re-connecting with long-lost allies and mentors, and courting voters once more. So far, his strategy seems to be working—he’s leading in all but a few polls for the city’s upcoming mayoral election.
A pro-Cuomo political organization, Fix the City, has been a major force in this revival. The group has attracted substantial financial backing, including a notable $250,000 donation from billionaire Bill Ackman, a well-known pro-Israel donor. This is crucial financial support because it allows Cuomo to significantly expand his message. It helps him build a national audience as he works to retake political power nationally.
Despite the controversies that marred his tenure as governor, Cuomo’s experience in leadership positions continues to appeal to many voters. His boosters argue he has the smarts and experience to traverse New York City’s treacherous political waters. This experience, they claim, makes him uniquely suited to tackle big challenges.
Zohran Mamdani’s Progressive Campaign
While Cuomo focuses on regaining his former stature, Mamdani is carving out his space in the political arena as a democratic socialist. His rise in the polls isn’t based on big dollar donations, it’s due to a strong grassroots movement. Small dollar donors and a passionate army of new leftist footsoldiers are fueling it, all hungry for revolution. Mamdani’s campaign has focused on issues of social justice, affordable housing, and environmental sustainability.
On top these issues, Mamdani has been a vocal critic of the genocide against Palestinians. In November 2023, he joined other activists on a hunger strike outside the White House. His uncompromising commitment to the counter movement struck a chord with millions of Americans who see things his way. This kind of activism makes him a compelling change of pace from more establishment Democratic primary candidates who would downplay the importance of such social factors.
Mamdani’s tie to the DSA further increases his attraction as a candidate. Her support organizationally enhances his credibility as well. Right now, progressive movements are making tremendous headway across the country. His campaign reflects this radical yearning for change taking root in the Democratic Party.
The Ideological Battle Ahead
The greater context of the upcoming New York Democratic primary is one of a party divided ideologically, between progressives and establishment Democrats. Cuomo may represent the quiescent, conservative old guard, but Mamdani represents the insurgent progressive wing that wants to rip up the rulebook. This pressure is reflective of national trends as these same fights are playing out across the country in numerous other states.
As both candidates prepare for the election, their contrasting approaches will likely shape the dialogue surrounding key issues facing New York City. Voters will have to decide whether they favor Cuomo’s experienced but controversial leadership style or Mamdani’s progressive vision for the city’s future.
The stakes are not just for these candidates but for the direction of the Democratic Party going forward. As Chicago goes, so will the mayoral races across the country go in 2023. In so doing, it will reveal whether voters are prepared to return to ambitious, progressive ideals or remain firmly entrenched in the status quo.
