Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo spent the weekend reconnecting with New Yorkers across the city’s five boroughs. His campaign stops included public housing cookouts in Harlem, bartending in Brooklyn, and joining the Colombian Day Parade in Queens. This hands-on approach is part of Cuomo’s renewed effort to win City Hall as an independent candidate.
Cuomo’s weekend tour gave him a chance to hear directly from residents about their concerns. Many expressed worry about rising living costs and the challenges facing the city. Despite his recent 12-point loss to political newcomer Zohran Mamdani in the Democratic primary, Cuomo remains confident that he can still capture the mayoral seat in the upcoming November election.
At the Johnson Houses in East Harlem, a community event filled with the aroma of grilled burgers and hot dogs, Cuomo moved through the courtyard. He smiled for selfies, shook hands, and encouraged people to vote for him. The crowd, mostly older Black residents, welcomed him warmly.
One man, sitting in his car and smoking a cigar, voiced his support. “This guy who is running, what’s his name? Mamdani. I’m not with that,” he said. Cuomo shook his hand and took a picture with him. The man added, “You were my governor, so you know I got you.” Cuomo thanked him and continued on his way.
While most reactions were positive, not everyone shared the same view. At one point, a man shook Cuomo’s hand, took a selfie, and told him, “I can’t wait to watch you lose again,” as Cuomo smiled for the camera.
Cuomo reflected on these mixed encounters. “New Yorkers, God bless them. You know, they tell you exactly what’s on their mind and what they’re thinking, what they’re feeling,” he said in an interview on Saturday.
His campaign strategy focuses on listening to everyday concerns. Many New Yorkers voiced anxiety about the cost of living and the future of the city. Cuomo aims to position himself as the candidate who understands these struggles and can bring change.
The former governor is working hard to rebuild trust and support. Despite the setback in the Democratic primary, his new approach involves meeting voters where they live. From community cookouts to city parades, Cuomo is seeking to make a direct connection with the public.
As the election nears, Cuomo’s campaign will likely continue this grassroots style. He hopes to sway voters who feel uncertain about the current leadership and want a proven figure to take charge.
His weekend activities showed a mix of support and skepticism. Yet, Cuomo’s willingness to engage face-to-face shows his determination. Whether this will translate into votes remains to be seen.
For now, Cuomo is focused on keeping his message clear: he believes New Yorkers still want him to lead the city. With every handshake and conversation, he pushes forward with his bid to take City Hall.
