In a significant political reversal, the Staten Island Democratic Party has rescinded its endorsement of former Governor Andrew Cuomo for New York City Mayor and formally announced its support for Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic nominee. The move underscores a growing wave of party unity behind Mamdani, a progressive Assemblymember from Queens who secured the nomination after a contentious primary.
Cuomo had won Staten Island in the Democratic primary with 46.5% of the vote, edging out Mamdani, who received 37.5%. However, Mamdani ultimately clinched the citywide nomination in ranked-choice voting, defeating Cuomo in the final round with 56.4% of the vote.
Staten Island Democratic Party Chair Laura LoBianco Sword explained the shift by emphasizing the importance of honoring the democratic process and backing the nominee chosen by voters. “Zohran is the Democratic nominee. The voters have spoken,” she said. “We want to work together and ensure Staten Island has a seat at the table.”
The endorsement follows similar moves by Democratic organizations in Manhattan and Brooklyn, who have rallied around Mamdani despite previous support for Cuomo. The coordinated pivot signals a broader effort among local Democrats to consolidate support and avoid fractures heading into the general election.
Mamdani, 33, is a democratic socialist known for championing tenant protections, fare-free public transit, and expanded social services funded by taxing the wealthy. His campaign has energized progressive voters and attracted high-profile endorsements from elected officials, including Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Letitia James, and Adriano Espaillat.
Despite Cuomo’s popularity among some Staten Island Democrats, local party leaders made it clear they are ready to move forward and work with Mamdani. The candidate is scheduled to hold a general election campaign kickoff in the borough on August 17, where he will engage with residents and local leaders to build support.
While Republicans are expected to make gains in Staten Island, the Democratic Party’s unified front may limit their inroads. Mamdani’s campaign welcomed the endorsement and reiterated its commitment to representing all five boroughs.
The Staten Island endorsement marks a final break with Cuomo and a clear statement: the borough’s Democratic leaders are aligning with the will of the voters and standing behind their party’s nominee.
