Additional Coverage:
Adams to Endorse Cuomo in Mayoral Race, Shaking Up Political Landscape
New York City Mayor Eric Adams is set to officially endorse former Governor Andrew Cuomo in the upcoming mayoral election, a move that comes as a surprise given Adams’ previous harsh criticisms of Cuomo. The announcement is expected today during a press conference initially focused on childcare, according to two sources close to the matter.
“I can confirm that the Mayor will endorse former Governor Andrew M. Cuomo for mayor and intends to campaign alongside him,” stated Todd Shapiro, Adams’ spokesperson.
“The time and locations for their joint appearances are currently being finalized.” The Cuomo campaign has yet to comment on the developing story.
This endorsement marks a significant shift in the relationship between the two political figures. Just days before Adams withdrew from his own re-election bid, he famously referred to Cuomo as “a snake and a liar.”
However, a recent courtside appearance at a New York Knicks game at Madison Square Garden, where both men were photographed smiling and giving thumbs-up after Cuomo’s final debate performance, hinted at a thawing of tensions. During Wednesday’s debate, Cuomo himself expressed his desire for Adams’ endorsement.
The impact of Adams’ support on the mayoral race remains uncertain. Prior to ending his re-election campaign, Adams was polling in fourth place, behind Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani, Cuomo, and Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa.
Mamdani’s campaign swiftly responded to the news, issuing a statement that read, “Today confirms what we’ve long known: Andrew Cuomo is running for Eric Adams’ second term. It’s no surprise to see two men who share an affinity for corruption and Trump capitulation align themselves at the behest of the billionaire class and the President himself.”
The impending endorsement was first reported by CBS New York and The New York Times. This is a developing story and further updates will be provided as they become available.