Comptroller Brad Lander received a significant endorsement from a panel of opinion experts at the New York Times, solidifying him as the top candidate in the New York City mayoral race. This endorsement could be pivotal as the Democratic primary debate draws near, especially with former Governor Andrew Cuomo and Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani currently leading in polls.
Lander’s recent campaign ad features him riding the iconic Coney Island Cyclone roller coaster, illustrating his readiness to navigate the challenges of city governance. The ad’s slogan, “Buckle up, remain seated, and vote for Brad Lander,” captures the dynamic and unpredictable nature of New York City.
Expressing his pride in the endorsement, Lander noted, “I could not be prouder to have the support and confidence of the panel of experts.” He aims to leverage this backing to resonate with voters about who would be the best entrusted to lead the city.
The impact of the Times’ endorsement could be considerable, drawing parallels to the 2021 elections when Kathryn Garcia benefited from the editorial board’s support, which significantly boosted her campaign.
As the race intensifies, new polls reveal Cuomo leading in two out of three recent surveys. An internal poll from Fix the City, a superPAC backing Cuomo, places him at 40%, with Mamdani at 19% and Lander trailing with 8%. Other surveys also position Cuomo and Mamdani favorably, while Lander seeks to bolster his support in the final stages of the race.
This competitive environment suggests a dynamic electoral landscape, especially as candidates vie for the spotlight and the backing of influential entities like the New York Times. With the primary approaching, the focus remains on how these endorsements and polling results will shape the final outcome for the city’s next mayor.