Former US President Donald Trump has threatened to withhold federal funds from New York City if Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani wins Tuesday’s mayoral election. The former president made the warning while endorsing former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo for mayor — a move that has surprised both parties.
Trump’s endorsement came through a post on his Truth Social platform, where he urged New Yorkers to vote for Cuomo, who is running as an independent after losing to Mamdani in the Democratic primary. Trump said, “Whether you personally like Andrew Cuomo or not, you really have no choice. You must vote for him and hope he does a fantastic job. He is capable of it, but Mamdani is not!”
Trump Crosses Party Lines to Back Cuomo
Despite being a Republican, Trump has chosen not to support GOP candidate Curtis Sliwa, who is trailing badly in polls. Instead, he threw his weight behind Cuomo, describing Mamdani as a “communist candidate.” Trump warned that a Mamdani victory would have financial consequences for the city, saying he would provide only the “minimum federal funds required.”
According to the New York State Comptroller, New York City is set to receive $7.4 billion in federal funding in fiscal year 2026 — about 6.4% of its total spending. Trump’s threat adds tension to a race already seen as a test for the Democratic Party’s future direction.
Mamdani’s Progressive Platform Divides Democrats
Zohran Mamdani, 34, a Uganda-born state assembly member and self-described democratic socialist, is leading in most polls. His campaign has energized younger voters and progressive Democrats but has alarmed moderates concerned about his stance on taxation, housing, and Israel. Mamdani has pledged to raise taxes on wealthy New Yorkers, increase corporate tax rates, freeze rent hikes, and expand public housing.
The progressive candidate’s criticism of Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories and his socialist policies have drawn sharp Republican attacks and discomfort among Wall Street circles. Still, Mamdani’s rise has become a rallying point for those seeking change from establishment politics.
Cuomo’s Political Comeback and Trump’s Calculated Move
Andrew Cuomo, who resigned as governor in 2021 following multiple sexual harassment allegations, is seeking a political comeback. Trump’s endorsement of Cuomo — despite his Democratic background — is being seen as a strategic attempt to block Mamdani’s leftist surge.
At a campaign rally, Mamdani dismissed Trump’s comments, saying, “The MAGA movement’s embrace of Andrew Cuomo shows exactly what kind of mayor Trump wants. They share the same donors, the same small vision, and the same sense of impunity.”
Political analysts say Tuesday’s election will serve as a barometer for the Democratic Party’s internal struggle between its progressive and moderate wings.
