Curtis Sliwa Stands Firm in NYC Mayoral Race Amid Pressure to Withdraw

Curtis Sliwa, the founder of the Guardian Angels, has declared his intention to remain in the race for New York City mayor, despite growing calls from business leaders and political figures for him to step aside. The pressure centers around consolidating the anti-Zohran Mamdani vote, with many advocating for support behind incumbent Mayor Eric Adams.

The Growing Consensus Against Sliwa

Influencers and Leaders Urge Sliwa to Withdraw

Prominent figures such as grocery store magnate Jon Catsimatidis and hedge fund billionaire Bill Ackman are pushing for a united front against the 33-year-old Democratic Socialist, Mamdani. Catsimatidis stated at a Southampton gathering of influential New Yorkers that the primary hurdle is convincing Sliwa to exit the race. Meanwhile, Ackman voiced his support for Adams on social media, noting that a consolidated campaign would maximize the chances for success in the upcoming election.

Challenges Faced by Sliwa

Real estate executives and Republican strategists argue that Sliwa’s chances are dwindling in a city where Democrats outnumber Republicans significantly. The consensus among them is that Sliwa, having won the Republican nomination unopposed, is unlikely to secure a victory in the general election. The current polling suggests that the field is getting crowded, making a coherent strategy essential for any candidate looking to challenge Mamdani’s momentum.

Sliwa’s Determination

Commitment to the Race

Curtis Sliwa is resolute in his decision to stay in the race, dismissing offers to withdraw. He metaphorically compared his commitment to the character played by Robert De Niro in "The Deer Hunter," stating, “You could put me in that situation, and I will say one thousand times, no, I’m staying in the race.” This emphatic response underscores Sliwa’s determination to continue his campaign despite external pressures.

Polling Data and Election Outlook

Sliwa has a vision for victory in November, asserting that he could win with just 31% of the vote, despite having lost to Adams with 28% in their last matchup. A recent Honan Strategy Group poll indicated that he could garner between 7% to 10% of votes, while another Manhattan Institute poll suggested up to 16%.

Key Candidates in the Race

• Curtis Sliwa – Running as a Republican
• Eric Adams – Seeking re-election on two independent lines
• Zohran Mamdani – Representing the Democratic and Working Families Party lines
• Andrew Cuomo – Having created an independent line, his name recognition could influence voter behavior

Enlisting Financial Support

Although Sliwa’s campaign currently holds $54,408, he is set to receive $4 million in matching funds from the city’s Board of Elections. He noted the complexities of withdrawing at this stage, emphasizing that he would have to return all funds and pay vendor invoices out of pocket. This potential financial entanglement illustrates the stakes involved in his decision to press on.

Current Support and Future Strategy

Sliwa claims backing from all five Republican Party borough chairs, including prominent supporters like A.J. Catsimatidis, head of the Manhattan Republican Party. As the election approaches, the political dynamics suggest intensified fundraising efforts, particularly around Adams, as many look to prioritize defeating Mamdani.

Looking Ahead: Sliwa’s Position

With tactical moves becoming increasingly urgent, Sliwa urges detractors to “take a deep breath,” likening their concerns to a “jilted lover” seeking immediate solutions. He emphasizes his commitment to the mayoral seat, rejecting all proposals to drop out in favor of potential positions within an Adams administration.

Conclusion

As the New York mayoral race heats up, Curtis Sliwa remains steadfast in his campaign. Despite significant external pressures and a crowded field, his resolve may play a pivotal role in shaping the future of New York City’s political landscape. With the election just around the corner, Sliwa’s strategy and voter outreach will be crucial in determining his ultimate fate in the race.

For additional insights, follow the latest developments on this topic at Politico and The New York Times.