Hundreds of Jewish New Yorkers gathered in Queens on October 26, 2023, to support former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who is running as an independent candidate for mayor of New York City. The rally, organized by the Bukharian Action Council, took place at the Kew Gardens Hills Library and attracted more than 300 attendees. Cuomo used the event to reaffirm his commitment to Jewish values and to express solid support for Israel amidst ongoing tensions in the region.
Cuomo, a native of the borough and an alumnus of Archbishop Molloy High School, emphasized the significant contribution of the Jewish community to New York’s identity. “The Jewish community made New York, New York,” he stated, underscoring the integral role they play in the city’s fabric.
During his address, Cuomo also highlighted pressing issues facing New Yorkers, including housing, crime, and public transportation. He criticized his main opponent in the mayoral race, Zohran Mamdani, arguing that Mamdani lacks the necessary experience for the role. “There is no on-the-job training for mayor,” Cuomo remarked, referencing the potential challenges a mayor might face, such as natural disasters or security threats.
Cuomo’s plans for the city include a proposal to build an additional 500,000 affordable housing units and to increase the police force by 5,000 officers, with a focus on subway safety. He aims to create a more business-friendly environment to retain companies in the city, declaring, “We want you to stay here.”
Supporters at the rally voiced their endorsement of Cuomo, with Ruben Davidoff, a Bukharian Jew who escaped the Soviet Union, sharing his rationale for voting against Mamdani, who is affiliated with the Democratic Socialists of America. Davidoff stated, “If we become a socialist country or socialist city, only a few people up top would be getting basically the best out of the best. Everybody else will suffer.”
The event came on the heels of the commencement of early voting in New York City, intensifying the competitive mayoral race. Mamdani has faced criticism for his views regarding Israel and the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which has further polarized the electorate.
Attendee Paul Brody, M.D., praised Cuomo’s qualifications, asserting that his governorship has prepared him well for the challenges of leading the city. “He knows about New York City, which is integral,” Brody explained.
Another supporter, Roman, who traveled from Brooklyn, emphasized Cuomo’s extensive experience in addressing homelessness and housing issues. “Andrew has been in D.C. with Housing and Urban Development,” he noted, expressing confidence in Cuomo’s ability to handle crime and quality-of-life issues.
As the campaign heats up, Cuomo’s rally serves not only as a platform for his policies but also as a demonstration of solidarity among Jewish New Yorkers, who chanted pro-Israel slogans such as, “We will not be erased,” and “We will stand for our Jewish community.” The event highlights the importance of community engagement in shaping the future leadership of New York City as the election approaches.
