In a surprising political shift, State Senator Jessica Ramos announced her endorsement of former Governor Andrew Cuomo’s bid for New York City Mayor on June 6, 2025. This endorsement comes despite Ramos’s previous criticisms of Cuomo, marking a significant turn in the city’s mayoral race.
A Dramatic Political Reversal
State Senator Jessica Ramos, a progressive Democrat representing Queens’ District 13, has officially endorsed former Governor Andrew Cuomo’s campaign for New York City Mayor. The announcement was made during a press conference held at the District Council of Carpenters Headquarters in Manhattan.
Ramos, known for her outspoken and progressive views, had been one of Cuomo’s most vocal critics during his gubernatorial tenure. She had previously raised serious concerns about his leadership style, transparency, and his administration’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her earlier comments included direct comparisons between Cuomo and President Joe Biden, implying doubts about Cuomo’s mental acuity and decision-making abilities.
Despite this history, Ramos expressed a renewed belief in Cuomo’s leadership capabilities. “While we’ve had our differences, I recognize Andrew’s experience and dedication to New York,” she said. “I believe he has the vision and capability to address the challenges our city faces.”
From Adversary to Ally
Ramos’s reversal comes amid a politically tense climate, with the city grappling with post-pandemic recovery, rising housing costs, and ongoing public safety concerns. Cuomo, who resigned from the governorship in 2021 amid multiple investigations, has steadily rebuilt his public image and political capital. His decision to enter the mayoral race marked a controversial yet impactful return to public life.
The endorsement signals a notable reconciliation and has been interpreted as a strategic alignment aimed at strengthening Democratic unity in the face of a crowded and competitive primary field.
“With Trump threatening to bulldoze New York and take us backward, we need someone in City Hall who knows how to hold the line and deliver under pressure,” Ramos said. Her support could carry significant weight with working-class and Latino voters, groups where she maintains strong grassroots support.
Boost to Cuomo’s Campaign
Cuomo’s campaign has capitalized on the endorsement as a pivotal moment. The former governor has been actively courting endorsements from labor unions and local leaders to solidify his campaign infrastructure. His endorsements from major labor unions, including the District Council of Carpenters and 32BJ SEIU, underscore his continued appeal among organized labor and blue-collar constituencies.
Political observers suggest Ramos’s backing could help rebrand Cuomo as a candidate of resilience and experience, countering narratives centered around his resignation. It may also serve to sway undecided progressive voters who remain skeptical but open to a candidate capable of navigating complex municipal governance.
The mayoral primary, set for June 24, 2025, remains wide open. Other major contenders include City Comptroller Brad Lander, State Senator Zellnor Myrie, and Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani. With early voting scheduled to begin on June 14, campaign strategies are rapidly evolving.
Reactions and Implications
Ramos’s move has generated mixed reactions. Some of her supporters have expressed confusion and disappointment, pointing to her past critiques of Cuomo as reasons to doubt his candidacy. Others see her endorsement as a pragmatic step toward fostering party cohesion and focusing on pressing civic issues.
Political strategist Ana Marquez noted, “This endorsement may alienate some in Ramos’s base, but it could also help Cuomo appear more palatable to progressives who might otherwise have stayed neutral or voted for a third-party candidate.”
The endorsement has reignited debates within New York’s Democratic circles about the balance between progressive ideals and political pragmatism. It also raises broader questions about forgiveness and second chances in public service.
Looking Ahead
As the primary approaches, the dynamics of the race are expected to intensify. Cuomo’s campaign aims to leverage Ramos’s endorsement not just as a political win but as evidence of broader reconciliation within the party. His platform emphasizes public safety, economic revitalization, and education reform.
Meanwhile, Ramos has indicated she will actively campaign for Cuomo, attending events and speaking at community gatherings in the coming weeks. Her involvement could prove pivotal in swaying key demographics across Queens, Brooklyn, and the Bronx.
In New York’s ever-volatile political landscape, Ramos’s endorsement adds a new layer of intrigue and complexity to an already unpredictable race. How this realignment will ultimately impact the election remains to be seen, but it has certainly shifted the conversation and energized both supporters and critics alike.
