In a surprising twist, former President Donald Trump has thrown his support behind ex-Governor Andrew Cuomo in the New York City mayoral race, despite their past rivalry. Trump urged city voters on Monday to choose Cuomo over Democratic Socialist candidate Zohran Mamdani, who is currently leading the polls.

Posting on Truth Social, Trump stated, “Regardless of your personal feelings about Andrew Cuomo, he is the only viable option. You must vote for him and hope for the best. He has the potential to succeed, unlike Mamdani!” He emphasized this point as Tuesday’s election loomed.

A native of New York City himself, Trump advised against casting votes for Republican contender Curtis Sliwa, suggesting that doing so would indirectly support Mamdani. He also reiterated a previous warning that federal funds could be withheld from the city if Mamdani secures victory.

“As President, it’s my duty to oversee the nation, and I firmly believe that a Mamdani win would lead New York City into economic and social ruin,” Trump declared. “His ideologies have been tested over centuries, and they have consistently failed.”

Trump continued, “I would much prefer a Democrat with a proven track record to triumph rather than a Communist with zero experience and a history of utter failure.”

Andrew Cuomo, meanwhile, had made it clear last month that he would not accept any endorsement from Trump should it be offered.

Mamdani defeated Cuomo earlier this year in the city’s Democratic primary, and polling has shown the assemblyman retains a lead heading into Election Day. The Decision Desk HQ polling average shows Mamdani leading the field with 44.6 percent, followed by Cuomo at 31.6 percent, and Sliwa at 18.6 percent. 

Tens of thousands of New Yorkers have already voted early in the mayoral contest.

Mamdani has said he would be willing to work with Trump to lower the cost of living for city residents. He said earlier Monday that he would be prepared to fight the administration over its threats to withhold federal money from the city.