The 2025 New York City mayoral race has drawn national attention, dominated by Democratic candidates in a city known for its liberal political leanings. Yet, one Republican candidate, Curtis Sliwa, continues to play a crucial role in shaping the outcome. His decision to remain in the race has sparked debate and may significantly influence the chances of other candidates, including former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, who is running as an independent.

Curtis Sliwa: A Republican Voice in a Democratic Stronghold

Curtis Sliwa has emerged as a key figure in New York politics, known for his outspoken and often controversial stances. Despite pressure from conservative allies to step aside and consolidate support behind Cuomo, Sliwa has refused to bow out. His persistence is seen by many as a boost for Democratic Socialist frontrunner Zohran Mamdani, who has surged in recent polls.

Sliwa’s campaign manager, Rusat Ramgopal, emphasized the candidate’s defiance, referencing Cuomo’s controversial past: “New Yorkers are tired of Andrew Cuomo, but Andrew Cuomo doesn’t seem to understand when ‘no’ means ‘no,’” alluding to the sexual misconduct allegations that forced Cuomo from the governor’s office in 2021.

At the final mayoral debate on October 22, Sliwa did not hold back, criticizing both opponents. He quipped, “Zohran, your resume could fit on a cocktail napkin, and Andrew, your failures could fill a public school library in New York City.” During the debate, he also echoed some Islamophobic rhetoric used by Mamdani critics, falsely accusing the leading candidate of supporting “global jihad.”

From Subway Hero to Political Candidate: The Curtis Sliwa Story

Sliwa first gained national attention as the founder of the Guardian Angels, a volunteer crime-fighting organization established in 1979. At just 24 years old, Sliwa started the group while working as a night manager at a McDonald’s in the Bronx. The Guardian Angels became famous for patrolling the New York City subway system, often credited with improving public safety during the city’s high-crime years.

Supporters admire Sliwa’s hands-on approach and his message of civic responsibility. “When people see that red beret, they think about subway safety, public safety. They remember what he’s done for the city,” Ramgopal said. Others, however, have criticized the Guardian Angels for promoting vigilantism, racial profiling, and targeting immigrants. Sliwa himself admitted in 1992 that some incidents were staged to attract media attention.

Over the decades, Sliwa has expanded his public presence, becoming a radio host, media personality, and political candidate.

Curtis Sliwa’s Mayoral Platforms

Public safety remains the cornerstone of Sliwa’s campaign. Even as New York City has seen a decline in crime, he continues to highlight a “crisis of lawlessness and failed leadership.” Sliwa has promised to hire 7,000 new NYPD officers, revive controversial police units, and implement “proactive and intrusive policing strategies” targeting illegal firearm carriers and repeat offenders.

Critics argue that Sliwa’s law-and-order policies could exacerbate racial profiling and civil liberties concerns, echoing past debates about policing in New York.

Beyond law enforcement, Sliwa has addressed housing affordability, pledging to overhaul the city’s coordination with affordable housing programs. He has also made animal protection a notable aspect of his campaign, reflecting his personal commitment as a pet owner.

Why Some Voters Support Curtis Sliwa

As the only Republican in a city with nearly 4.7 million registered voters—of which only 11 percent are Republicans—Sliwa appeals to conservative New Yorkers who prioritize law-and-order policies. His background with the Guardian Angels resonates with voters who value personal safety and community action.

Shan Singh, a 30-year-old cab driver from Queens, switched his support from the Democratic Party to Sliwa after the 2024 presidential election. “His work with the Guardian Angels has resonated with me a lot,” Singh said. Other supporters, like 28-year-old Brooklyn resident Russell, emphasize Sliwa’s stance on crime and criticism of bail reform programs.

What Are Curtis Sliwa’s Chances in the 2025 Election?

While Sliwa’s presence influences the mayoral race, his path to victory is highly unlikely. Recent Quinnipiac University polls show him with just 14 percent support among likely voters, compared to 43 percent for Zohran Mamdani and 33 percent for Cuomo.

Former Governor Cuomo has actively lobbied Sliwa to exit the race, arguing that votes for the Republican candidate split the conservative vote and ultimately favor Mamdani. Cuomo has even suggested that Sliwa could be offered a role in a potential administration if he were to withdraw. However, Sliwa has remained steadfast, with many supporters unwilling to switch allegiances.

“If Sliwa leaves the race, I wouldn’t vote for either Cuomo or Mamdani,” said Russell, underscoring the loyalty some voters feel toward the Republican candidate.

The Bottom Line: Curtis Sliwa’s Role in NYC Politics

Curtis Sliwa may not be leading in the polls, but his influence in the 2025 New York City mayoral race cannot be ignored. From a Guardian Angels founder to a media personality and political contender, Sliwa continues to embody a unique blend of local heroism, conservative politics, and controversial rhetoric. Whether he acts as a spoiler or a significant political voice, Sliwa’s campaign highlights the complexities of New York City politics in a deeply divided electoral landscape.