Cuomo to stay on New York City mayoral ballot in November on independent line: Source

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Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo to Remain on NYC Mayoral Ballot as Independent Candidate

Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has decided to stay on the New York City mayoral ballot in November as an independent candidate, according to a source close to his campaign. Cuomo qualified to run on the “Fight and Deliver” ballot line through an independent nominating petition submitted to the New York City Board of Elections back in May. This move was aimed at reaching voters who may be disillusioned with the Democratic Party.

Despite conceding to state assemblymember Zohran Mamdani in the Democratic primary for New York City mayor, Cuomo has chosen not to withdraw from the independent ballot line. There is uncertainty, however, regarding whether he will actively campaign in the coming months.

In a speech to his supporters on Tuesday night, Cuomo acknowledged Mamdani’s victory, stating, “Tonight was not our night; tonight was Assemblyman Mamdani’s night… He deserved it. We’re going to take a look and make some decisions.”

Candidates have until the end of Friday, June 27, to withdraw from running on an independent ballot line they qualified for, as per the New York State Board of Elections calendar. Cuomo is currently evaluating all available data, including the upcoming release of ranked-choice voting tabulations by the New York City Board of Elections on July 1.

In an interview with CBS 2 New York, Cuomo expressed his intention to continue running as an independent candidate in November. He emphasized the need to assess the results of the primary election and evaluate the general election landscape before making any further decisions.

Cuomo’s mayoral bid comes in the wake of his resignation as governor four years ago amid allegations of sexual harassment and inappropriate behavior. Despite denying the allegations, Cuomo recently admitted regret over his decision to step down.

Incumbent Democratic Mayor Eric Adams, who is also running as an independent candidate, officially launched his reelection campaign on Thursday. Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa and independent candidate Jim Walden will also be on the ballot in the upcoming November election.