New York City Republican mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa has sent a strong warning to his Democratic opponent Zohran Mamdani before the November 4 election. The Guardian Angels founder made it clear he will not work with Mamdani if the Democratic socialist wins the race to lead the city.
According to Fox News, the comments came after a debate on Wednesday where Mamdani said he would rank Sliwa second in a ranked-choice voting system. When asked if he would help Mamdani’s administration if the 34-year-old assemblyman wins, Sliwa gave a firm answer. He told reporters after the debate that he would organize resistance instead.
“The only thing I would do if, God forbid, Zohran Mandami was the choice of the people, and we will leave it up to them, is I will organize resistance because I will improve. I will not move. Zohran Mamdani could bet that I will be his worst nightmare,” Sliwa said. He said that unlike former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who is running as an Independent after losing the Democratic primary to Mamdani in June, he will not leave New York City.
Both Candidates Agree On One Thing At Least
Even though they disagree on most things, Sliwa and Mamdani have found one issue they both care about. Both candidates have pushed back against billionaire influence in the mayoral race after two wealthy businessmen asked Sliwa to drop out. The election has seen its share of controversy, including scammers targeting voters with urgent election tricks.
Red Apple Media CEO John Catsimatidis and hedge fund CEO Bill Ackman have publicly told Sliwa to end his campaign to help Cuomo’s chances. At a press conference on Monday, Sliwa said no to their request and said he trusts the people to make the decision.
“The billionaires can conspire to pick their candidate,” Sliwa said. “I trust the people. They will make the decision. I will not drop out.” Mamdani held his own press conference the same day and said he was surprised to agree with his Republican opponent on this matter.
“I never thought I would say this, but here we are, where the only candidates who agree that billionaires shouldn’t control the future of this city are the Republican nominee and the Democratic nominee,” he said. As the race heats up, New Yorkers are being warned to stay alert about various scams affecting people across the city. When asked about his debate answer about ranking Sliwa second, Mamdani stuck with his response and said he believes in ranking candidates who actually love New York City.
Sliwa also went after Mamdani’s behavior during the debate. He compared the Democratic candidate to Pinocchio, but said that instead of his nose growing, Mamdani’s smile just gets bigger. The Republican nominee said this constant smile shows when his opponent is not telling the truth.
Published: Oct 23, 2025 02:15 pm