By Terrence Fox, Senior Correspondent
On June 15, 2025, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez sounded a strong warning during a campaign rally in Queens, New York, alleging that former Governor Andrew Cuomo could use a potential win in the upcoming New York City mayoral race as a platform for a 2028 presidential bid. The outspoken congresswoman used the occasion to draw a sharp contrast between Cuomo and her endorsed candidate, Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani, urging voters to look closely at the broader political implications of their choice.
Ocasio-Cortez addressed a crowd of several hundred supporters at a park in Jackson Heights, calling attention to what she described as a resurgence of establishment politics. She criticized Democratic leaders who had once demanded Cuomo’s resignation following a series of sexual harassment allegations but are now publicly supporting his return to elected office. Cuomo has consistently denied the allegations and was not charged following investigations.
“The people of New York deserve transparency, accountability, and leadership that reflects their values,” Ocasio-Cortez said. “Supporting someone you once condemned shows that loyalty to power has overtaken loyalty to principle.”
Mayoral Race with National Implications
Cuomo, who served as governor from 2011 to 2021 before resigning under pressure, announced his candidacy for mayor of New York City earlier this year. His campaign emphasizes experience, crisis management, and economic recovery. Drawing on his leadership during major events such as Hurricane Sandy and the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, Cuomo has pitched himself as a steady hand capable of navigating complex urban challenges.
In contrast, Zohran Mamdani, a progressive New York State Assembly member representing a district in Queens, has built his campaign around a platform of social equity, economic justice, and climate action. Mamdani has gained significant traction among younger voters and New Yorkers seeking bold policy change. His agenda includes fare-free public transit, affordable housing guarantees, and a Green New Deal for the city.
Polls leading up to the June 24 Democratic primary show Cuomo with a modest lead, though Mamdani has closed the gap in recent weeks thanks in part to high-profile endorsements and a strong grassroots campaign.
A Divided Democratic Base
Ocasio-Cortez’s remarks reflect broader tensions within the Democratic Party, especially in New York, where establishment figures often clash with the progressive wing. Her endorsement of Mamdani aligns with her consistent calls for generational and ideological change within the party.
“We are not just voting for a mayor. We are voting on the future direction of our city and our party,” Ocasio-Cortez told attendees. “This is about whether we continue to recycle the past or build something new.”
Mamdani, speaking after AOC, thanked the congresswoman for her support and pledged to bring transparency, justice, and inclusivity to City Hall. “We are running a people-powered campaign that rejects the politics of convenience,” he said. “Our vision for New York is rooted in fairness, compassion, and bold action.”
Potential 2028 Run Fuels Speculation
Cuomo has not publicly announced any plans beyond the mayoral race, but political analysts note that a successful campaign could set the stage for a broader comeback. Having held statewide office for over a decade, Cuomo possesses the political infrastructure, name recognition, and fundraising network that could support a national campaign.
Still, his candidacy remains controversial. Some Democratic voters continue to question the decision to re-embrace a figure whose resignation was prompted by serious allegations and a damning report from the New York Attorney General.
Others argue that Cuomo’s experience and resilience make him uniquely qualified to govern a city facing ongoing economic and social challenges. His supporters point to his record on infrastructure, healthcare expansion, and education reform as evidence of his capacity to deliver results.
Voters Face a Defining Choice
The June 24 primary is more than just a local contest; it is a referendum on the identity and values of the Democratic Party in New York and potentially beyond. For progressives, it represents an opportunity to solidify influence and promote transformative policies. For centrists and moderates, Cuomo’s campaign offers a return to tested leadership.
As voters head to the polls, the race has become a microcosm of the national conversation within the Democratic Party: a debate over values, leadership, and the path forward. Regardless of the outcome, the contest has already reshaped the city’s political landscape and reignited discussions about accountability, ambition, and authenticity in public life.