Cuomo Runs Independent After Primary Loss, Backed by Trump

Former New York governor Andrew Cuomo lost the Democratic primary to progressive Zohran Mamdani and is now running as an independent in the New York City mayoral race. He has attracted unexpected support from many Republicans and moderates and is campaigning on his experience and record managing major infrastructure projects. President Trump gave a reluctant, late endorsement of Cuomo, labeling Mamdani a “communist,” saying he’d prefer a “bad Democrat” over Mamdani and warning he might withhold federal funds if Mamdani wins. Cuomo has drawn endorsements from figures like Michael Bloomberg while critics continue to cite his nursing‑home COVID policy fallout and his 2021 resignation amid sexual‑harassment allegations. Commentators have suggested Trump’s endorsement is a strategic move to steer Republicans and moderates toward Cuomo rather than indicating ideological alignment.