Mamdani Criticizes Trump’s Alleged Job Offer to Adams

Democratic mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani condemned reports that Donald Trump, the Republican President of the United States, has offered Mayor Eric Adams a job in his administration. This alleged maneuver is seen as an attempt to clear the field for Andrew Cuomo, the former governor, who is polling second in the upcoming mayoral election. Mamdani characterized the reported offer as an “affront to democracy” during a press conference in Manhattan on September 3, 2023.

Mamdani’s comments followed an article by the New York Times, which was later supported by additional media outlets. The report suggested Trump proposed a position within the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to Adams, aiming to weaken his reelection campaign. Interestingly, Cuomo served as HUD secretary during the Clinton Administration. In response, Adams, through campaign spokesperson Todd Shapiro, denied receiving any job offer from Trump.

Mamdani Calls Out Political Maneuvering

During the press conference, Mamdani, a democratic socialist and member of the New York Assembly, asserted that Trump’s reported actions indicate Cuomo is the president’s favored candidate for the mayoralty. “Today, we have learned what New Yorkers have long suspected, that Andrew Cuomo is Donald Trump’s choice to be the next mayor of this city,” Mamdani stated.

The Times also reported that Trump’s team is considering extending a job offer to Curtis Sliwa, the Republican nominee. Sliwa has since clarified that he has not been in contact with the White House regarding a job and is not interested in such an offer.

Mamdani accused Cuomo of actively participating in efforts to undermine the Democratic electoral process. He argued that both Cuomo and Adams are collaborating with Trump to derail the Democratic nominee’s chances in the November election. “The issue is a former governor, a Democrat in name, calling the president of this country, having a conversation with the intent of how to stop the Democratic nominee’s success,” Mamdani emphasized.

Cuomo’s Denial and Political Dynamics

Reports surfaced last month that Cuomo and Trump discussed the race over the phone. Cuomo reportedly predicted at a fundraiser in the Hamptons that Adams would withdraw from the race, suggesting Trump would encourage his supporters to back Cuomo over Sliwa. Cuomo has since denied these claims, asserting that his comments were speculative and not based on actual conversations with Trump.

Cuomo’s spokesperson, Rich Azzopardi, emphasized that the governor was merely responding to a hypothetical question regarding the election. “We’re not asking for or expecting help from anyone,” Azzopardi stated.

Mamdani’s remarks reflect growing concerns among some Democratic leaders about the implications of political alliances that could reshape the upcoming election. As the race intensifies, the dynamics between these key figures highlight the complexities of New York City’s political landscape. With the election approaching, the stakes are high not only for the candidates involved but also for the voters who seek a representative that aligns with their democratic values.