Stay ahead in the NYC mayoral race as State Senator Jessica Ramos shocks voters by endorsing Andrew Cuomo while staying on the ballot. Learn how to track the June 24 primary and what this means for New York City!
In a stunning twist in the New York City mayoral race, State Senator Jessica Ramos, a progressive Democrat from Queens, announced her endorsement of former Governor Andrew Cuomo on Friday, despite remaining a candidate in the June 24 Democratic primary. The move, made at a carpenters’ union event in Manhattan, has sparked heated debate, given Ramos’s past criticism of Cuomo, including questioning his “mental acuity” just months ago. Here’s what you need to know about this game-changing moment and how to stay engaged with the unfolding 2025 mayoral contest.
Ramos’s Surprising Pivot in a Crowded Race
Jessica Ramos, known for her progressive stance and advocacy for labor and immigrant communities, sent shockwaves through the Democratic primary by throwing her support behind Cuomo, the frontrunner who resigned as governor in 2021 amid sexual harassment allegations he denies. Ramos, who once called for Cuomo’s resignation and criticized his leadership, justified her decision, stating, “He’s the one best positioned right now to protect this city.” She emphasized the need for a mayor who can “hold the line” against external pressures, particularly citing concerns about federal policies under President Trump.
Despite her endorsement, Ramos is staying in the race, with her name remaining on the ballot. This strategic move aligns with New York City’s ranked-choice voting system, where voters can rank up to five candidates. Her decision is seen as an acknowledgment that her campaign, which has struggled with single-digit polling and just $9,000 in funds, lacks the traction to win. By endorsing Cuomo, Ramos aims to influence the race while continuing to push her platform of higher wages, more housing, and stronger worker protections.
Backlash and Support Stir the Pot
The endorsement has ignited a firestorm among progressives, with many feeling betrayed by Ramos, who built her career challenging establishment figures like Cuomo. Social media erupted with criticism, with some calling her move “disgusting” and accusing her of abandoning the progressive movement that propelled her to the State Senate. Others, however, see it as a pragmatic choice in a race where Cuomo leads polls with 34% support, far ahead of rivals like Zohran Mamdani, who trails at 16%. Ramos’s endorsement could bolster Cuomo’s appeal among Latino voters and labor groups, especially after she lost expected union support to him earlier this year.
Cuomo welcomed the endorsement, praising Ramos as a “fighter for working New Yorkers” and highlighting their shared Queens roots. He pledged to work with her on key issues like a $20 minimum wage, a cornerstone of his campaign. The move also helps Cuomo counter lingering concerns about the sexual harassment allegations, as Ramos was among the female elected officials who once demanded his resignation.
What’s at Stake in the NYC Mayoral Race
With the Democratic primary less than three weeks away, the race is heating up. Cuomo faces stiff competition from progressive candidates like Zohran Mamdani, Brad Lander, Adrienne Adams, and Zellnor Myrie, who are backed by the Working Families Party and figures like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. These candidates are urging voters to exclude Cuomo from their ranked-choice ballots to block his path to victory. Ramos’s endorsement, however, signals a fracture in the progressive coalition, potentially giving Cuomo an edge as he secures major labor unions and business backing, including $10 million from a super PAC.
The June 24 primary will determine the Democratic nominee to face independent incumbent Eric Adams, Republican Curtis Sliwa, and independent Jim Walden in November. Issues like affordability, public safety, and housing dominate the campaign, with Ramos’s endorsement highlighting the strategic maneuvering in a race shaped by ranked-choice voting.