Curtis Sliwa: Determined to Protect New York City
Republican mayoral nominee Curtis Sliwa made it clear on Thursday that he is not stepping down from his campaign, despite growing pressure for him to withdraw. This pressure comes as many express concern about the rise of socialist candidate Zohran Mamdani, who recently defeated former Governor Andrew Cuomo in the Democratic primary.
Sliwa, the founder of the Guardian Angels, is ready to face off against both Mamdani and current Mayor Eric Adams in the upcoming November election. He firmly stated, "I’m focused on one thing: winning this race and saving New York City from the corruption and collapse created by the current administration."
The dynamics of the race are getting tense. While Sliwa stands firm, some insiders believe that Mayor Adams, running as an independent, is still trying to maneuver for Sliwa’s place on the Republican ticket. Reports suggest that Adams has been making calls, hoping to win over influential Republicans in an effort to take away Sliwa’s nomination.
In response to these rumors, Sliwa laughed off suggestions that he might be leaving the race for a position in the Trump administration. "It’s laughable that Eric Adams is spreading these stories. He’s the one who’s panicking," he remarked.
The stakes are high for everyone involved. Concerns are mounting among Republicans, business leaders, and even moderate Democrats about Mamdani potentially gaining a clear path to victory. With a divided field including Sliwa, Adams, independent Jim Walden, and possibly Cuomo, who may also run as an independent, the future of the mayoral race is uncertain.
Even if Cuomo remains in the race, many believe he lacks the support needed to make a significant impact against Mamdani. Some view Mamdani’s recent triumph over Cuomo as a potential game-changer, which Adams aims to use to revitalize his own chances for re-election. He has positioned himself as a candidate who can effectively challenge the socialist agenda.
However, Sliwa’s supporters believe he is the only candidate capable of standing up to Mamdani. Onlookers have noted Adams’ attempts to sideline Sliwa, but many Republican leaders have reiterated their commitment to support Sliwa’s candidacy.
As the pieces of this political puzzle continue to shift, the challenge remains for Adams to secure the nomination for the GOP. Due to a specific New York election law, he would need the backing of three out of five Republican county chairs, or Sliwa would have to step aside for any chance of taking the GOP line.
Despite the rumors circulating about possible behind-the-scenes maneuvers, Sliwa maintains a stronghold in Staten Island, which is a critical area for the Republican base in the city. In previous elections, Sliwa performed well there, and many believe he can replicate that success this time around.
Voices within the Republican party speak to Sliwa’s steadfastness. John Catsimatidis, a notable Republican donor and ally of Adams, expressed skepticism about Sliwa bowing out. "I don’t think Curtis is getting out," he stated, reinforcing the idea that Sliwa remains committed to his campaign.
As the election looms, it’s evident that the battle for New York City’s future is heating up. Sliwa’s determination to stand firm against the socialist tide could invigorate his supporters and rally others who are concerned about the direction the city is headed. With the stakes so high, Sliwa’s fight for the mayor’s office symbolizes a crucial moment in the political landscape of New York City.
Looking ahead, the rivalry will be one to watch, as voters will decide whether they want a return to traditional values or if they will choose to follow a more progressive approach that some fear could take the city in a direction it doesn’t want to go.
