Curtis Sliwa, the GOP’s NYC mayoral nominee, forcefully pushed back on claims he might drop out of the race to make way for Eric Adams. He placed the blame squarely on Adams for the rise of socialist challenger Zohran Mamdani, and left the door open for a potential endorsement from former President Trump.
Sliwa told Fox News he is the only “real tried and true New Yorker”—blaming Adams for allowing Mamdani’s socialist agenda to gain traction in the city. He dismissed exit rumors as “laughable” and vowed his only departure would come “in a coffin, in a pine box”. Sliwa also criticized Adams for living in New Jersey, stating, “Eric Adams? He lives in Fort Lee,” contrasting his own relentless presence in subways and neighborhoods.
Meanwhile, pressure is mounting behind the scenes. Reports suggest donors are working to secure Sliwa a position in the Trump administration—clearing the GOP ballot line for Adams to run as a Republican and block Mamdani. But according to election law, Adams would need approval from three of five Republican county chairs—or Sliwa would need to leave the city—to take over the nomination.
On policy, Sliwa sharpened his critique of Mamdani’s democratic socialism—highlighting dangers seen in Chicago and promising a focus on public safety, housing affordability, and no-kill shelters. He emphasized his grassroots campaign, riding subways daily and touting his Guardian Angels legacy as proof that he truly understands the city’s pulse.
Sliwa acknowledged a “love-hate” relationship with President Trump. He admitted he hasn’t spoken to Trump recently but would welcome an endorsement. He reminded listeners Trump did not endorse Adams last cycle, and said an appearance could shift the dynamics.
This showdown underscores high-stakes political theater in NYC. Republicans weigh whether Sliwa or Adams offers the strongest defense against Mamdani’s progressive surge. For now, Sliwa stands firm—refusing to yield the field.
