If Silwa dropped out, Cuomo would have a much better chance against Zohran. But he is refusing, which means that Zohran pretty much has the cat in the bag.
Curtis Sliwa, the Republican nominee in the 2025 New York City mayoral election, is polling third, and critics like billionaire Bill Ackman argue that his continued candidacy splits the anti-Mamdani vote, potentially handing the win to Mamdani.
Despite mounting pressure from Cuomo, Ackman, Fox News commentator Liz Peek, and others to drop out and consolidate support behind Cuomo, Sliwa has repeatedly refused.
Here are the main reasons he's given for staying in the race:
1. Commitment to voter choice and democracy over elite influence
Sliwa emphasizes that the election should be decided by voters, not "billionaires, landed gentry, or the professional political class." He has rejected alleged attempts to bribe him out of the race (claiming offers up to $10 million from Cuomo allies) and dismisses pressure from figures like Ackman, whom he calls a "jerk" who "knows nothing about politics" and lives outside the city. His campaign spokeswoman, Maria Sliwa, echoed this: "Billionaires aren’t going to decide the outcome, it’s the voters. It’s the people. Let the people decide."
2. Representation of the Republican Party and down-ballot candidates
As the official GOP nominee (having run unopposed in the primary), Sliwa argues he can't abandon the party line, which includes supporting council members and judges running under him. He says dropping out would betray those who "put their heart and soul into it" and leave Republicans without a major-party option.
3. Strong campaign resources and momentum
Sliwa points to his fundraising success, noting he has more donations and matching funds than Cuomo. He also highlights his active ground game, including 11 headquarters and widespread signage, contrasting it with what he sees as Cuomo's weaker effort. He dismisses polls showing him in third place, feeling "emboldened" by positive feedback after recent debates.
Criticism of Cuomo as the one who should drop out
Sliwa flips the script, arguing Cuomo, whom he calls a "curmudgeon" with a "defeatist attitude - lost the Democratic primary and carries too much "baggage" from scandals (e.g., nursing home deaths during COVID, sexual harassment allegations, and past statements telling conservatives to leave New York). He questions why his supporters would switch to Cuomo, saying, "How dare you people know nothing about politics suggest that everybody who's gonna vote for me is suddenly gonna be reborn: 'We love Andrew Cuomo.'" He adds that Cuomo's admission he can't win with Sliwa in the race means Cuomo should exit instead: "Why not Andrew Cuomo drop out? Go to the Hamptons with his billionaire friends and leave it be a one-on-one."
3. Focus on his unique platform and independence
Sliwa positions himself as a street-level candidate with deep knowledge of the city, contrasting with Mamdani (whom he blames on Democratic "self-destruction") and Cuomo. He rejects endorsements or interference from figures like Donald Trump, stating even if Trump called, the answer would be "no." His campaign centers on issues like crime, taxes, and the economy, warning the city is turning into an "Escape from New York" sequel.
4. Personal resilience and history
At 71, Sliwa draws on his background as founder of the Guardian Angels, claiming threats against him and his wife but refusing to back down. He has said, "Men have died in battle for the right to vote," framing his stance as a defense of democratic principles.
Some observers and critics speculate Sliwa's refusal stems partly from ego or notoriety, as he knows his chances are slim but enjoys the spotlight. However, Sliwa maintains he's in it to win and provide an alternative voice, with the election set for November 4, 2025.
His chances however, are slim to none.
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