Judge Rules Jim Walden Remains On NYC Mayoral Ballot Despite Withdrawal

Jim Walden, an independent candidate in the 2025 New York City mayoral race, suspended his campaign but was legally required to remain on the November ballot after missing the deadline to remove his name. A Manhattan judge ruled that the city's Board of Elections properly enforced election laws by refusing to remove Walden's name, emphasizing that the law only permits name removal under specific conditions and before a certain deadline. Walden urged voters to support any candidate other than Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani, whom he characterized as inexperienced and radical, and called on other trailing candidates, including incumbent Mayor Eric Adams and Republican Curtis Sliwa, to drop out. Despite speculation that Adams might exit the race, his name is also expected to remain on the ballot if he withdraws due to similar legal constraints. The situation could result in ballots featuring candidates who have formally left the race, potentially confusing voters. Walden has chosen not to appeal the ruling, acknowledging the Board of Elections' timeline for certifying ballots.