NYC Mayor Race: Mamdani alleges plot with Cuomo and Trump, following reports of their conversation
In a surprising turn of events, Democrat mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani has accused Andrew Cuomo of conspiring with President Donald Trump about the mayoral race.
During an Aug. 7 press conference at 26 Federal Plaza, Mamdani made the accusations, claiming that Cuomo has "very little regard" for the Democratic Party or the democratic process. He further alleged that Cuomo sold out working people for his own interests, Trump's, and those of billionaires who boosted his primary campaign with cash.
The allegations come after a report by The New York Times of a previously unknown recent phone call between Trump and Cuomo about the mayor's race. However, both Trump and Cuomo have disputed that the call took place. Cuomo told reporters on Thursday that he cannot remember the last time he spoke to President Trump. Trump, in turn, denied to reporters in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday night that a call between him and Cuomo about the mayor's race occurred.
Cuomo's denial of speaking to Trump about the mayor's race on Thursday was more emphatic than that of his spokesperson on Wednesday. Cuomo stated that he would defend the city "100%" from Trump's attacks, referencing past battles with Trump as governor. He also argued that he is the "last person" Trump would want as mayor in the five-way general election.
In response to Mamdani's accusations, Cuomo said during his own news conference, "That's false." He further stated that he would try to work with Trump where possible as mayor.
Mamdani, however, contends that his campaign represents the city's best chance at fighting back against authoritarianism and understanding that democracy is under attack from within. He was joined by leaders and members of the New York State Nurses Association, 32BJ SEIU, and 1199 SEIU, who have pivoted to support him in the general election.
Meanwhile, Trump has criticized Mamdani, warning of negative consequences if Mamdani is elected, even threatening federal intervention similar to his actions in Washington, D.C. Mamdani argues that Trump's threats to denaturalize his citizenship status and deport him are clear examples that the president is fearful of him becoming mayor.
The controversy surrounding the alleged conversation between Cuomo and Trump adds another layer of intrigue to the already heated New York City mayoral race. As the election approaches, it remains to be seen how these allegations will impact the candidates and the race as a whole.
[1] It's important to note that there is no evidence that Andrew Cuomo and Donald Trump discussed the New York City mayoral race in a recent phone call. Instead, both have publicly commented on the race but separately.
[1] The allegations of a phone conversation between Donald Trump and Andrew Cuomo about the New York City mayoral race, while controversial, are yet to be substantiated with concrete evidence.[2] This controversy, along with Mamdani's claims of a conspiracy between Cuomo and Trump, has added a layer of political intrigue to the general news surrounding the mayoral race.[3] Meanwhile, car accidents, crime and justice, and general news have continued to occur independently, unaffected by the ongoing politics and policy-and-legislation-related controversies in the race for New York City mayor.
