New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani endorsed Lindsey Boylan for a City Council seat on Friday, backing the first woman to publicly accuse former Gov. Andrew Cuomo of sexual harassment. Boylan’s special election is scheduled for April 28.
The endorsement reflects Mamdani’s approach to wielding his political power since taking office—seeking to influence Democratic races and build City Council support for his affordability agenda. The move puts him at odds with City Council Speaker Julie Menin, who has backed a different candidate for the open Manhattan seat.
Why Mamdani Is Backing Boylan
“She represents the kind of fearless leadership this moment demands,” Mamdani said in a statement, praising Boylan’s willingness to challenge entrenched power and stand up for working people.
A History of Harassment Allegations
Boylan accused Cuomo of sexual harassment in 2020 while serving as an economic development adviser in his administration. She said he subjected her to an unwanted kiss and inappropriate comments. Cuomo has denied the allegations.
In 2021, Cuomo resigned after a state attorney general report concluded he had sexually harassed 11 women, including Boylan. Boylan ran unsuccessfully for Congress and Manhattan borough president before entering the City Council race.
“I need partners in the work like Lindsey and that’s why I am proud to endorse her campaign for City Council,” Mamdani said, citing the need for allies to advance his affordability agenda.
A Pattern of Endorsements
Mamdani’s endorsements have extended beyond this race. He endorsed Brad Lander in a race against U.S. Rep. Dan Goldman, and backed state lawmaker Claire Valdez to succeed retiring U.S. Rep. Nydia Velázquez. These endorsements have placed Mamdani in conflict with other Democratic leaders, including Gov. Kathy Hochul, who supports Goldman.
Responses to the Endorsement
Former Gov. Cuomo’s spokesperson Rich Azzopardi denied the accusations, saying the former governor “never harassed anyone” and characterized Boylan as “a perennial candidate” unworthy of support. “Mamdani endorsing her tells you everything you need to know about him and his new era,” Azzopardi said.
Boylan said she was honored by the endorsement. “I was proud to support the Mayor in his campaign to bring affordability and change to New York City,” she said.