New York Mayoral Race: Early Voting Starts Amid Trump Opponent Dominance
Early voting for New York’s mayoral race commenced on Saturday, October 25, 2025. This election features an outsider Democratic candidate, Zohran Mamdani, as the frontrunner. His unexpected rise has the potential to shake up the city’s political landscape, especially facing scrutiny from former President Donald Trump.
Key Candidates and Their Stances
Zohran Mamdani, a 34-year-old state lawmaker, has emerged as the leading candidate. He identifies with socialist ideals and focuses on the city’s affordability crisis. His proposals aim to freeze rent for two million New Yorkers living in rent-stabilized properties.
Mamdani’s campaign has particularly resonated with young voters, who are increasingly concerned about the city’s escalating cost of living. He currently holds 47% support according to a recent poll conducted by Victory Insights, leading his closest rival, Andrew Cuomo, by 18 percentage points.
Cuomo and Sliwa Challenge
Andrew Cuomo, the former state governor at 67 years of age, has gained the backing of the current mayor, Eric Adams, who previously criticized him harshly. Adams has yet to determine how his endorsement will affect the electoral dynamics.
- Current Mayor: Eric Adams
- Former Governor: Andrew Cuomo
- Republican Candidate: Curtis Sliwa, age 71, 16% support
Election Timeline
New Yorkers can cast their votes early from October 25 until November 2. The official Election Day is set for November 4, following which the victor will assume office in the new year.
Political Landscape and Federal Relations
The mayoral race has been significantly influenced by economic themes and the candidates’ stances toward former President Trump. Mamdani’s vision includes making bus travel and childcare free for residents in a city of over 8.5 million people. Trump, in turn, labeled him a “communist,” which has raised tensions surrounding federal funding for the city.
While Mamdani has indicated a willingness to cooperate with Trump to enhance city living conditions, Sliwa aims to negotiate with the former president, suggesting a combative approach. Cuomo has expressed his intent to confront Trump directly.
Support and Endorsements
Mamdani’s campaign received a boost when Hakeem Jeffries, a prominent House Democrat, endorsed him. Jeffries commended Mamdani’s focus on tackling the affordability crisis and his ambition to represent all New Yorkers, regardless of political allegiance.
Additionally, Mamdani will be appearing alongside influential figures like Senator Bernie Sanders and Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez at a mobilization event in Forest Hills Stadium, Queens, which aims to galvanize voter turnout.
The upcoming weeks will be crucial in shaping the race as early voting gets underway, marking a pivotal moment in New York’s political future.
