© 77 WABC and James Flippin
(New York, NY) – Zohran Mamdani being elected as the Democratic nominee in New York City’s mayoral race has drawn swift reaction from people on both sides of the political aisle. Republicans — including even President Donald Trump — have unsurprisingly blasted Mamdani’s socialist policies. GOP nominee for NYC mayor Curtis Sliwa says he’s the only candidate who can stop the Queens lawmaker Mamdani, who officially lists himself as a Democratic socialist.
On Monday, July 7, former New York Governor David Paterson called a press conference. The city was returning from the long holiday weekend, and Paterson wanted to get to work. It’s worth noting that Independent candidate for Mayor Jim Walden made a similar plea last week — calling on the candidates to come together and unite as “free market” proponents, in opposition to Mamdani.
Paterson, who many consider to be a more “conservative” Democrat, is opposing Mamdani’s candidacy. He endorsed former Governor Andrew Cuomo during the primary. And, responding to a question about that endorsement — Paterson admitted he does worry this effort could be “too little, too late,” in terms of impacting the race. Still, Paterson said the idea of bringing together a coalition to decide what happens next is appropriate. Broadly speaking, he wants to see someone drop out of the race in order to coalesce against Mamdani. There is widespread concern that with Cuomo still in the race — as well as incumbent Mayor Eric Adams (running as in independent) — Mamdani will cruise to victory.
Paterson drew specific attention to Mamdani’s past comments defending the term “globalize the intifada.” Many have suggested that Mamdani’s anti-Israel policies either border on or outright enter anti-Semitism. The former governor said there’s a big difference between someone issuing campaign promises during a primary and then actually executing said agenda while running the city.
Admitting that the candidates themselves may not be able to agree on who will drop out — Paterson suggested business and political leaders come together in a bid to form a coalition. He said there is real danger afoot for New York City if a socialist such as Mamdani were to be elected.
Calling for a coordinated pressure campaign on candidates like Cuomo, Adams, and Sliwa, Paterson said the goal is to come up with a clear, singular alternative to Mamdani’s positions. The former governor said some of his policies aren’t even doable — such as freezing rents entirely. He also said while he supports the liberals and progressives of the Democrat party, Paterson maintains Mamdani’s policies go beyond the pale of what’s been done by past New York City mayors.
Meanwhile, 77 WABC owner-operator John Catsimatidis referred to himself as a “common sense” individual who used to be a Democrat. He noted his friendships with former President Bill Clinton as well as President Donald Trump. “Let common sense prevail,” Catsimatidis said. He also refused calls from gathered reporters when asked if Curtis Sliwa should drop out. “He’s been my friend for 30 years. I’m not calling on him to drop out, full stop,” Catsimatidis said.
