Cross-Endorsements Reshape NYC 2025 Mayoral, Council Races

The 2025 New York City elections are marked by significant political maneuvering and cross-endorsements aimed at influencing outcomes in key races. In the Upper East Side's District 4 Council race, candidates Aronson and Ben have jointly denounced outside spending by Trump-aligned PACs and wealthy donors as a form of election interference, urging voters to be vigilant against outside influences. Meanwhile, the Democratic mayoral primary has seen strategic cross-endorsements, notably between Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and City Comptroller Brad Lander, in an effort to counter front-runner Andrew Cuomo, who has received controversial support from State Sen. Jessica Ramos despite backlash from progressives. Endorsements from unions, political organizations, and influential figures remain crucial, with some surprising choices, such as Brooklyn Democratic Party leader Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn backing Cuomo, and the United Federation of Teachers withholding endorsements for some candidates. The comptroller race is characterized by a focus on coalition building between the leading candidates, Mark Levine and Justin Brannan, with endorsements split among various elected officials across the city. Early voting has begun across New York City, with many voters already casting ballots as the June 24 primary approaches.