In a surprising turn of events, Rep. Nick Langworthy, the former chair of the New York State Republican Party and a close ally of President Trump, has publicly endorsed Andrew Cuomo for mayor. This endorsement comes as a strategy to prevent the election of “communist” candidate Zohran Mamdani, who is the Democratic nominee and currently leading in the polls.
Langworthy expressed his belief that Cuomo, a former three-term Democratic governor running as an independent, stands a better chance of defeating Mamdani than Curtis Sliwa, the Republican candidate. “This is about saving the city from communism,” Langworthy remarked. He noted that polling indicates Cuomo is only about ten points behind Mamdani, making him a more viable contender than Sliwa.
Highlighting Cuomo’s experience, Langworthy said, “He knows how to run a government….he’s certainly a better option than the alternative of Mamdani and the Democratic Socialists of America running the city with no checks and balances.” Langworthy represents the 23rd District in Western New York, which spans from Binghamton to the Buffalo suburbs, but he is adamant that the outcome in New York City will have repercussions across the entire state.
This support for Cuomo is echoed by other Republican officials, including Rep. Mike Lawler, who has also indicated a preference for Cuomo over Sliwa. In contrast, Rep. Nicole Malliotakis, the sole Republican representing parts of New York City, has thrown her weight behind Sliwa in the race.
Interestingly, President Trump has not endorsed Sliwa either, having publicly criticized him in the past. Trump suggested that if Sliwa were to drop out, Cuomo might have a real chance, indicating a tactical consideration among Republicans looking to halt Mamdani’s campaign. Trump stated, “It’s really a question of, would I rather have a Democrat or a Communist? And I would rather have a Democrat than a Communist.”
Despite the mounting pressure from influential party figures, Sliwa has rejected suggestions to exit the race. With the election on November 4 approaching quickly, the dynamics of the mayoral race are shifting, reflecting deep divisions within the Republican Party in response to a perceived threat from the progressive policies associated with Mamdani. Langworthy’s endorsement of Cuomo serves as a stark reminder of the tactical alliances being formed to navigate these complex political waters as results become increasingly vital for both state and city governance.