NEW YORK (Diya TV) — Former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo is officially back in the race for New York City mayor. On Monday, Cuomo announced he will run as an independent in the general election, just weeks after losing the Democratic primary to Zohran Mamdani.

In a campaign video, Cuomo framed his decision as a fight to save the city. He directly criticized Mamdani, calling the progressive lawmaker “a candidate with slick slogans but no real solutions.” Cuomo added, “Only 13% of New Yorkers voted in the June primary. The general election is in November, and I am in it to win it.”

Cuomo’s return sets up a crowded and chaotic race. Alongside Mamdani, the November ballot includes Mayor Eric Adams, who is also running as an independent, former prosecutor Jim Walden, and Republican Curtis Sliwa.

Many critics of Mamdani’s agenda, which includes raising taxes on the wealthy, worry the split vote could help the democratic socialist win. They have urged voters opposed to Mamdani to unite behind one candidate.

Mamdani’s team responded to Cuomo’s entry by accusing him of catering to the rich and powerful. “While Andrew Cuomo and Eric Adams are tripping over themselves to cut backroom deals with billionaires and Republicans,” said Mamdani spokesperson Jeffrey Lerner, “Zohran Mamdani is focused on making this city more affordable for New Yorkers.”

Cuomo’s move marks another chapter in his political comeback. He stepped down as governor in 2021 following multiple allegations of sexual harassment, which he has denied. He claimed the scandal was politically motivated. Despite the controversy, Cuomo entered the primary as a favorite. His campaign featured big donors, widespread name recognition, and years of experience.

However, his approach turned voters away. Cuomo gave few interviews, avoided public events, and rarely engaged with voters. Meanwhile, Mamdani ran a dynamic campaign. The 33-year-old state assemblyman energized young voters and attracted national attention through his social media presence.

Mamdani’s team of volunteers canvassed across the city. Their efforts paid off. Cuomo conceded on election night after ranked-choice voting results showed Mamdani winning by 12 percentage points.

Still, Cuomo secured a spot on the general election ballot under a new political party he created, “Fight and Deliver.” His decision to stay in the race followed weeks of pressure from both sides. Key labor unions and longtime allies urged him to step aside. Even Rev. Al Sharpton called on him to make room for new leadership.

Meanwhile, Adams gained support from wealthy donors and centrists. Though still a registered Democrat, Adams skipped the primary after a corruption case against him was dismissed. He blamed the federal investigation for preventing him from campaigning. Now running as an independent, Adams said Cuomo is only helping Mamdani by staying in the race. “The people spoke loudly — he lost,” Adams said. “Yet he continues to put himself over the number one goal — beating Mamdani and securing our city’s future.”

Cuomo, 67, once defined New York politics. As governor, he signed same-sex marriage into law and oversaw major infrastructure projects, including a massive Hudson River bridge named for his father. He became a national figure during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, hosting daily briefings that combined stern warnings and personal touches.

But his image quickly faded. His administration underreported nursing home deaths. Then, the state’s attorney general released a report accusing him of sexually harassing at least 11 women. Facing mounting pressure, Cuomo resigned.

Now, he is promising a more hands-on campaign. His latest video shows him greeting voters and pledging to listen to their concerns. “Every day I’m going to be hitting the streets, meeting you where you are,” Cuomo said. “Because for the next few months it’s my responsibility to earn your vote.”

The race is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable in the city’s history. With multiple independents running and a high-profile progressive leading the Democratic ticket, voters face a clear choice this November.