Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has announced that he will continue his bid for mayor of New York City as an independent candidate, setting the stage for a general election battle against Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani.
Cuomo, who resigned from the governorship in 2021 following multiple allegations of misconduct, lost the Democratic primary to Mamdani on June 24. Mamdani, a 33-year-old state assemblyman and progressive Democrat, secured the nomination with approximately 56% of the vote to Cuomo’s 44%.
In a video statement released Monday, Cuomo confirmed that he will remain in the race under a newly created third party, “Fight and Deliver.” He stated, “The general election is in November. I’m in it to win it.”
Cuomo also noted that he would drop out of the race in September if polling data or public sentiment suggests that he is not the leading candidate among those opposing Mamdani.
Zohran Mamdani, widely seen as a rising figure within the Democratic Socialists of America, campaigned on a progressive platform including expanded public housing, universal pre-K, rent control, and police reform. His primary win marked a significant moment for the progressive movement in New York politics.
Cuomo’s independent run is expected to appeal to moderate Democrats and independents who may be uneasy with Mamdani’s progressive policies. Political analysts say his presence in the race could split the Democratic vote and reshape the general election landscape.
The general election for New York City mayor is scheduled for November 4, 2025.
