Cuomo Campaign’s Final Push: Mobilizing Support Before Election Day

As Election Day approaches, the Cuomo campaign is intensifying its efforts to galvanize supporters and diminish the impact of rival candidate Curtis Sliwa. With early voting numbers reflecting strong support from voters over 50 years of age—typically a cohort that leans toward the former governor—the campaign is framing this crucial final week as a decisive fight for turnout.

Early Voting Trends Favor Cuomo

Recent statistics reveal a significant turnout among older New Yorkers, a demographic that shows a preference for Cuomo. This encouraging trend is prompting the campaign to focus on converting undecided Republicans and those who might have previously considered the race a foregone conclusion.

Key Endorsements Boost Momentum

• Former New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg made headlines by donating $1.5 million to the pro-Cuomo super PAC Fix The City and publicly endorsing the former governor.
• Bloomberg had largely remained uninvolved until now, having previously donated $8 million to Cuomo during the Democratic primary.

These endorsements come as super PAC bundlers urge supporters for additional donations aimed at bolstering field operations in key areas like Staten Island and the Bronx.

Polling Landscape: A Mixed Bag

While the Quinnipiac poll indicates that Cuomo is trailing his rival, Zohran Mamdani, by 10 points—46% to 33%—it also reveals a surprising shift in Republican voter allegiance. A significant 45% of likely Republican voters are now backing Cuomo, with just 44% for Sliwa.

In contrast, a recent Emerson poll shows Mamdani breaking the 50% barrier for the first time, with Cuomo at 25% and Sliwa at 21%. Critics question the validity of this poll, citing its reliance on text responses that may skew results.

Cuomo’s Strategy to Win Over Voters

Cuomo’s path to victory hinges on convincing Sliwa supporters to reconsider their vote. Notably, Vickie Paladino, a Republican city council member, declined a request from Cuomo to switch her endorsement from Sliwa, while Inna Vernikov recently reversed her support, stating, “Curtis Sliwa cannot beat the danger that is Zohran Mamdani.”

Prominent Republican Mike Lawler expressed his support for Cuomo while vocally criticizing him, calling the current race “the shittiest choice I’ve seen in a mayor’s race.”

Strengthening Support Among Democrats

Despite the challenges, Cuomo is attracting a range of endorsements from moderates. Tom Suozzi, a Democratic congressman from Long Island, declared his support, diverging from party leaders who endorse Mamdani. “I’m a Democratic Capitalist, not a Democratic Socialist,” Suozzi stated.

The Importance of Turnout

With approximately 1.1 million voters participating in the last mayoral election, the Cuomo campaign understands that surpassing 1.5 million votes is crucial for a win. High early voting numbers among anti-Mamdani Republicans, independents, and some Democrats provide a glimmer of hope for the campaign.

Cuomo has actively campaigned in Staten Island and the Bronx—regions he previously won—while also connecting with key demographics like Jewish voters in Brooklyn and co-op owners concerned about environmental regulations linked to Mamdani.

Challenges Ahead

Despite the campaign’s efforts, skepticism remains about voter enthusiasm for Cuomo. As Democratic strategist Michael Hardaway pointed out, “How many Cuomo voters are excited, and how many are just voting against the other guy?”

Activating Support for Mamdani

Meanwhile, the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) continue to rally behind Mamdani, having been instrumental in his primary win. They sent out messages urging supporters to join canvassing efforts, emphasizing the importance of galvanizing a strong voter base.

“In one week, Zohran Mamdani could be elected NYC’s socialist mayor. But we need your help to win big, with a governing mandate,” read the DSA’s outreach text.

Conclusion

As Election Day looms, the stakes are high, and the Cuomo campaign is doing everything in its power to tilt the balance in its favor. The battle for voter turnout remains intense, and both campaigns will be keenly monitoring each shift in polling, endorsements, and community sentiment in these final hours.

For a deeper dive into the ongoing political landscape, you can explore more about the dynamics at play here.