Ex-GOP Chair Langworthy Endorses Cuomo for NYC Mayor to Counter Mamdani's 15-Point Lead

Upstate Representative Nick Langworthy, a former New York State Republican Party chairman and close ally of President Trump, has publicly endorsed independent mayoral candidate Andrew Cuomo over Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa. Langworthy stated his support for Cuomo is aimed at preventing Democratic front-runner Zohran Mamdani, whom he labeled a "communist," from winning the upcoming November 4 election. This endorsement highlights a significant split within the Republican party as some seek to consolidate anti-Mamdani votes.

Langworthy articulated his rationale to Fox News, stating, "This is about saving the city from communism." He acknowledged his past public disagreements with Governor Cuomo but asserted that Cuomo "would be a far superior mayor than a communist." Langworthy emphasized Cuomo's experience in governance as a critical factor, believing he has a more credible path to victory against Mamdani.

Zohran Mamdani, who identifies as a democratic socialist, currently leads the mayoral race. A recent Manhattan Institute survey showed Mamdani with 43% support, a 15-point lead over Cuomo's 28%, with Sliwa trailing at 19%. The poll also indicated that if Sliwa were to withdraw, Mamdani would still hold a 44-40% edge against Cuomo, suggesting a tight contest.

Cuomo, running as an independent after losing the Democratic primary to Mamdani, has garnered support from some moderate Democrats and Republicans. Republican Hudson Valley Rep. Mike Lawler also backed Cuomo, viewing him as a more viable alternative to Mamdani. Notably, President Trump has not endorsed Sliwa, instead disparaging the GOP candidate and suggesting Cuomo has a better chance, which has signaled to other Republicans that backing Cuomo is acceptable.

The race has become a battle over ideological direction for New York City. Mamdani's platform includes proposals like free buses, scaling back Gifted and Talented programs, and raising corporate taxes, some of which face skepticism from voters. Meanwhile, Super PACs supporting Cuomo and opposing Mamdani have raised over $40 million, with significant contributions from billionaires, underscoring the high stakes involved in preventing a Mamdani mayoralty.