New York City Mayoral Election 2025: What You Need to Know

The 2025 New York City mayoral election, scheduled for November 4, 2025, has emerged as one of the most closely watched municipal elections in recent memory. With incumbent Mayor Eric Adams withdrawing from the race in late September, the contest has transformed into a dynamic three-way battle that could reshape the political landscape of America's largest city.

This election carries national significance as New York City voters choose between dramatically different visions for the city's future. The outcome will influence everything from housing policy and public safety to economic development and social justice initiatives across the five boroughs.

Meet the Leading Candidates

Zohran Mamdani (Democratic Nominee)

State Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani secured the Democratic nomination in a stunning upset victory over former Governor Andrew Cuomo in the June primary. The 33-year-old progressive politician has built his campaign around affordable housing, rent stabilization, and progressive taxation policies. Mamdani's victory was supported by the Democratic Socialists of America and prominent progressive leaders.

Key policy positions include implementing a 2% tax on incomes over $1 million, freezing rent-stabilized unit increases, and expanding public housing development throughout the city.

Andrew Cuomo (Independent)

Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo launched his independent campaign after losing the Democratic primary. Running on the "Fight and Deliver Party" line, Cuomo emphasizes his executive experience and promises to restore competent governance to City Hall. Despite his primary defeat, polling suggests he remains competitive in the general election.

Cuomo's campaign focuses on public safety, infrastructure improvements, and leveraging his Albany connections to secure state and federal funding for city projects.

Curtis Sliwa (Republican Nominee)

Guardian Angels founder Curtis Sliwa returns as the Republican nominee after his 2021 defeat. Sliwa has made animal rights and public safety central to his campaign, running on both the Republican and "Protect Animals" ballot lines. His grassroots approach and colorful personality have maintained his visibility despite limited polling numbers.

Current Polling and Election Predictions

Recent polling data shows Mamdani maintaining a significant lead in the race. According to September 2025 surveys, the Democratic nominee holds approximately 45% support among likely voters, compared to 24% for Cuomo and single digits for Sliwa.

Polling experts note that Mamdani's primary victory exceeded most predictions, suggesting potential challenges in accurately measuring his support. The assemblyman's coalition includes progressive voters, younger demographics, and increasingly, Black voters who supported other candidates in the primary.

Political strategists emphasize that with early voting beginning October 25, the window for significant momentum shifts continues to narrow as the November 4 election approaches.

Critical Issues Shaping the Campaign

Housing and Affordability Crisis

Housing affordability dominates voter concerns across all five boroughs. Mamdani's rent freeze proposal contrasts sharply with Cuomo's market-based solutions and Sliwa's focus on increasing housing supply through zoning reforms.

Public Safety and Police Reform

Crime rates and police reform remain contentious issues. While Mamdani has softened previous criticism of the NYPD, Cuomo emphasizes law and order, and Sliwa advocates for community-based safety initiatives through expanded Guardian Angels presence.

Economic Recovery and Development

Post-pandemic economic recovery strategies differ significantly among candidates. Mamdani proposes progressive taxation and expanded social services, Cuomo emphasizes business-friendly policies and infrastructure investment, while Sliwa focuses on small business support and tourism promotion.

Important Election Dates

• October 25, 2025: Early voting begins
• November 1, 2025: Last day to request absentee ballot
• November 4, 2025: Election Day
• January 1, 2026: New mayor takes office

How New Yorkers Can Vote

Unlike the Democratic primary which used ranked-choice voting, the general election employs the traditional first-past-the-post system. Voters select one candidate, and the candidate receiving the most votes wins.

Registered New York City voters can participate through early voting, absentee ballots, or Election Day voting. Polling locations and voter registration information are available through NYC Votes.

Frequently Asked Questions