US President Donald Trump has endorsed former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo in his independent run for New York City mayor. Trump urged New Yorkers to reject Democratic front-runner Zohran Mamdani, calling him a “communist” and warning of an “economic and social disaster” if Mamdani wins Tuesday’s election.
Posting on Truth Social, Trump said he would limit federal funds for New York City if Mamdani becomes mayor. He claimed that Mamdani’s policies would destroy the city’s economy and accused him of having “a record of complete and total failure.”
Trump’s backing of Cuomo surprised many, given their past clashes. He said he would rather see a Democrat with experience win than a “communist with no chance of success.” Trump also mocked Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa, saying a vote for him is “a vote for Mamdani.”
Billionaire Elon Musk joined Trump in endorsing Cuomo, urging New Yorkers to vote for him on X. Despite these endorsements, polls show Mamdani leading, followed by Cuomo, with Sliwa trailing far behind.
Trump’s influence in New York remains uncertain, as he has consistently lost in his hometown, though his vote share rose slightly in 2024.
