Early voting in New York City has begun, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. With the November 4 general election on the horizon, the city is poised to potentially hand over its future to a socialist—Queens Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani. This is not just a race for mayor; it’s a referendum on the values that will shape the so-called “capital of capitalism.”
Mamdani, the Democratic nominee and an unapologetic socialist, stands to inherit a staggering $115 billion budget and govern a workforce of nearly 300,000. This is a recipe for disaster, as he embraces policies that threaten the very fabric of our city. He is the presumptive favorite, bolstered by the assistance of former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who, running as an independent, risks dividing the moderate and conservative vote with Republican Curtis Sliwa.
The current mayor, Eric Adams, faced with sagging approval ratings and a federal investigation that shook his campaign, has opted to suspend his re-election bid. Despite being cleared of corruption allegations, his decision leaves him on the ballot as an independent. His absence from the Democratic ticket signals a troubling shift in the political landscape.
New York City has 5.1 million registered voters, and early voting runs through November 2. Voters should utilize this opportunity to make their voices heard loud and clear. Polling locations are open daily, but voters must be aware of special hours on the weekends.
One voter, Gloria Resto, a 77-year-old retiree, is casting her ballot for Cuomo due to his perceived alignment with former President Trump and her skepticism toward Mamdani’s radical platform. Resto articulates a sentiment shared by many: Mamdani’s rhetoric, which includes targeting demographics for taxation, raises alarm bells and underscores a loss of trust.
Yet, amid the chaos, there are voices seeking something different. James Vargas, a retired 62-year-old, has thrown his support behind Sliwa, reflecting a growing frustration with both major parties. He encapsulates the sentiment of many: “We’re in a mess. Maybe he’ll do some things, see what happens. Otherwise, we vote him out.” This desire for change indicates that New Yorkers are ready to disrupt the status quo.
As candidates argue over critical issues like crime, homelessness, and relationships with Israel, polls reveal that Mamdani leads Cuomo by nearly 20 points. Shockingly, 26.5% of respondents fear for their future in New York City if Mamdani wins, threatening a mass exodus from the city.
The early voting period has drawn in New Yorkers who appreciate the convenience, but it’s crucial to remember that these elections affect more than just the mayor’s office. Voters are also selecting a comptroller, public advocate, City Council members, and more. The implications of this election are monumental, with Democrats holding a more than 6-to-1 advantage in registered voters, which could stifle true competition in many races.
Some races, however, are indeed heating up. Look out for Republican Kristy Marmorato fighting to maintain her seat in the Bronx. Additionally, the hard-fought contests for City Council seats and the ongoing battle for Manhattan District Attorney’s office, where soft-on-crime policies are under scrutiny, are essential to watch.
It’s not just about choosing a mayor or a few council members; it’s about the direction of New York City. Voters have the power to say no to socialism and yes to a future that prioritizes safety, economic growth, and responsible governance. As election day approaches, let’s make our voices heard and protect the values that make our great city thrive.
