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New York is preparing for a closely watched mayoral election on Tuesday that could deliver a historic result. Democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani is the clear front-runner, leading polls by double digits and energising young voters with a campaign focused on affordability and progressive reform. His main challenger, former Governor Andrew Cuomo, is mounting an independent run, while Republican Curtis Sliwa has refused calls to step aside. Who are the main candidates? Zohran Mamdani A 34-year-old state assemblyman, Mamdani has promised sweeping economic reforms to make New York "cheaper and fairer." His proposals include taxing the wealthy, freezing some rents, offering free buses and childcare, and raising the hourly minimum wage to $30. Mamdani has received endorsements from senior Democrats, including New York Governor Kathy Hochul and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. Also Read: Who's Writing His Scripts? Zohran Mamdani Under Fire Over Remarks on Modi Govt If elected, Mamdani would become New York's first Muslim and first socialist mayor. He has also vowed to "stand up to President Trump," whose administration he says has targeted progressive cities. Andrew Cuomo The 67-year-old former governor, who resigned in 2021 after facing sexual-harassment allegations he denies, is campaigning as an independent. Cuomo has positioned himself as the candidate of stability and public safety, calling for the hiring of more police officers and criticising Mamdani's "unrealistic" economic agenda. Cuomo's slogan — "Ready on Day One" — highlights his experience leading the state through crises, but his campaign faces an uphill battle after losing the Democratic primary to Mamdani earlier this year. Curtis Sliwa Best known as the founder of the Guardian Angels, a volunteer crime-prevention group, the 71-year-old Republican has continued his campaign despite calls to drop out. Critics fear his candidacy could split the anti-socialist vote and weaken Cuomo's chances. Who is Ahead in the Polls? According to a Quinnipiac University poll released in the final days of the race, 43% of likely voters support Mamdani, compared with 33% for Cuomo and 14% for Sliwa. Mamdani's support has dipped slightly — down three points in recent weeks — but he still maintains a commanding lead. Young voters overwhelmingly back Mamdani, while Cuomo performs better among Jewish voters and Republicans. His numbers have risen modestly since Mayor Eric Adams dropped out and endorsed him. What Does President Trump Say? President Donald Trump has privately told allies he believes Mamdani is "unbeatable." Publicly, he has threatened to withhold federal funds from New York City if Mamdani wins and implements his proposed reforms. "Remember, he needs the money from me, as President, in order to fulfill all of his FAKE Communist promises. He won't be getting any of it," Trump wrote on social media, repeatedly mischaracterising Mamdani's politics. What are the Key Issues? The election has focussed on affordability, public safety, and relations with the White House. Mamdani has openly voiced his plan on taxing the rich and cutting living costs. Cuomo has emphasised policing, experience, and restoring order. Both candidates have pledged to defend the city against what they describe as Trump's overreach.What Happened at the Debates? Two televised debates last month showcased sharp exchanges between Mamdani and Cuomo. Mamdani criticised Cuomo's handling of nursing homes during the Covid-19 pandemic, while Cuomo accused Mamdani of refusing to denounce Hamas and questioned his credibility for living in a rent-stabilised apartment. Sliwa largely focused on crime and transport but struggled to gain traction. When and Where Can New Yorkers Vote? Early voting began on October 25 and runs through Sunday. Election Day is Tuesday, with polls open from 6 am to 9 pm. Voters waiting in line when polls close are still entitled to cast their ballots. Early-voting and Election Day polling sites may differ; voters can check their assigned locations on the New York City Board of Elections website. Each borough has issued its own early-voting stickers this year. The deadline to register or request a mail-in ballot was October 25. Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from US News and around the World.
