Billionaire Ackman Backs Adams, Urges Cuomo Exit NYC Mayoral Race

Billionaire hedge fund manager Bill Ackman has publicly urged former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo to withdraw from the New York City mayoral race to improve incumbent Mayor Eric Adams' chances of defeating Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani. Despite having donated $500,000 to Cuomo's primary campaign, Ackman now believes Adams is best positioned to win the election, citing Cuomo's subdued energy and lack of readiness for the fight. Ackman met with both Adams and Cuomo earlier in the week and expressed high regard for Cuomo's contributions but concluded that Cuomo should step aside to maximize Adams' probability of success. This call aligns with other political figures, including Reverend Al Sharpton, who have encouraged Cuomo to exit the race to allow a direct contest between Adams and Mamdani. Cuomo's campaign maintains that most New Yorkers do not support socialism or President Trump's backing of Adams, emphasizing the city's political middle ground. As the deadline for ballot withdrawal has passed, Cuomo has not indicated plans to leave the race, with polls showing him competitive if he remains.