Trump says Cuomo could defeat Mamdani in NYC mayoral race, as Mamdani’s socialism exposes deep rifts among Democrats.

Trump Sees Opening for Cuomo in Heated Mayoral Race

President Donald Trump weighed in on New York City’s closely watched mayoral election Tuesday, telling reporters at the White House that former Governor Andrew Cuomo “would have a good shot at winning” if he continues his independent bid against Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani. Trump’s comments come as Cuomo, seeking a political comeback after a high-profile resignation in 2021, pivots toward a November run following his primary defeat to Mamdani.

The race, already marked by controversy and shifting alliances, has drawn national attention for its implications beyond city limits. Trump referred to Mamdani as a “communist,” and said, “I don’t think that race is over yet. We do have a couple of people running. There are things coming out about him.” Trump’s apparent encouragement of Cuomo’s campaign highlights the former governor’s unique position in a city where the Democratic primary winner is typically favored, yet the general election field is unusually crowded and fluid.

Mamdani’s Progressive Campaign Roils Democratic Ranks

Mamdani, who made history as the first Muslim and first millennial nominee for New York mayor, surged past Cuomo and other challengers in a primary fueled by support from progressive figures like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Sen. Bernie Sanders. His campaign has prioritized affordability and cost of living, promising policies such as eliminating bus fares, freezing municipal housing rents, free childcare, and tuition-free CUNY. Leveraging social media and grassroots outreach, Mamdani has energized new and traditionally low-turnout voters across the city.

Yet Mamdani’s rise has also fractured Democratic unity. Several major party leaders—including Governor Kathy Hochul, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries—have stopped short of offering endorsements, wary of the nominee’s self-described socialist stance. Congressional Hispanic Caucus Chairman Rep. Adriano Espaillat’s recent endorsement underscores the internal debate, while others like Rep. Tom Suozzi and Rep. Laura Gillen distance themselves, fearing electoral backlash in swing districts.

Republicans, meanwhile, see opportunity. “If Zohran Mamdani becomes mayor of New York City, it’s going to put a lot of seats in play,” predicted Rep. Mike Lawler, whose battleground district lies just north of the city. GOP strategists argue that Mamdani’s platform could fuel primary challenges for vulnerable Democrats and complicate efforts to reclaim the House majority in 2026.

General Election Faces High Stakes and Uncertain Alliances

The general election, now set to include Cuomo, incumbent Mayor Eric Adams (also running as an independent after facing federal bribery charges), and Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa, is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable in recent memory. Independent candidate Jim Walden has proposed a September poll to unify anti-Mamdani votes, though cooperation between rivals appears unlikely.

Mamdani, for his part, maintains that internal party conversations remain productive, expressing hope for eventual unity. “We will come together and, as good Democrats, we will work out our differences,” said Espaillat. Still, Republicans and moderate Democrats alike continue to highlight Mamdani’s record and rhetoric—pointing to past statements on capitalism and controversial activism—as campaign fodder.

With only 13% of New Yorkers voting in the June primary and the city’s future direction at stake, candidates are intensifying outreach as November approaches. As Trump’s predictions and party dynamics play out, the contest will serve as a test for progressive politics in America’s largest city and a bellwether for broader ideological battles nationwide.