In a race traditionally focused on housing costs, public safety, and transit, the 2025 New York mayoral race has become a battleground for international politics, particularly the Palestinian cause.

The two frontrunners, Andrew Cuomo and Zohran Mamdani, are turning their starkly opposing positions on "Israel" and Palestine into defining campaign themes.

It is noteworthy that former Governor Andrew Cuomo has joined the legal team defending Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu against war crime charges, while his leading opponent, Zohran Mamdani, a Democratic Socialist and Assembly member from Queens, has publicly vowed to arrest Netanyahu if he visits New York City.

This divergence has amplified attention on a city that is home to both the world’s largest Jewish population outside Palestine and the largest Muslim population in the Western Hemisphere.

Two polar opposites 

Cuomo, who is attempting a political comeback, has centered his campaign on combating antisemitism and reinforcing his support for "Israel".

Speaking at a Manhattan synagogue, he described himself as a “hyper-aggressive supporter of Israel” and deemed antisemitism “the most serious and the most important issue” in the race. His campaign has received backing from pro-Israel donors, including a $250,000 contribution from billionaire Bill Ackman.

In contrast, Mamdani has made headlines for his pro-Palestinian stance, stressing that "Israel" is committing “an American-funded genocide in Gaza.” He has led protests, including a hunger strike outside the White House and a blockade at the New York Stock Exchange, advocating for an end to US military support for "Israel".

His campaign includes proposals to make it illegal for charities to fund Israeli military operations.

A divided city

The divide reflects deeper fractures within New York City politics. Cuomo's messaging appeals to centrist and Orthodox Jewish voters concerned with so-called "public safety and religious solidarity", while Mamdani, a Muslim and first-time mayoral hopeful, is backed by progressive voters critical of "Israel’s" genocide in Gaza.

Fundraising, endorsements, and ideological fault lines

Cuomo has positioned Mamdani and other progressive opponents as “anti-Israel,” a label he uses interchangeably with antisemitism. In past races, Cuomo faced criticism for similar tactics, including a 2018 mailer falsely tying opponent Cynthia Nixon to antisemitism.

Mamdani, meanwhile, emphasizes his advocacy for “universal human rights” and equal treatment under international law. While he recognizes "Israel", he challenges its current attack and American complicity in funding it.

His alignment with Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) and public appearances with figures like leftist pundit Hasan Piker have further energized critics and anti-Palestine PACs now planning ad campaigns against him.

Foreign policy stances shape the election

Despite the global focus, both candidates are competing for a job rooted in municipal concerns, from managing housing to fixing potholes.

But the symbolism of their positions on the Palestinian struggle against the occupation has made it impossible to avoid the international lens.

Other candidates, including City Comptroller Brad Lander and former Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, have attempted to strike a balance, critical of Netanyahu’s policies but cautious not to alienate New York’s Jewish communities.

Cuomo has also drawn backlash for past remarks, including comparing Orthodox Jewish Sukkot celebrations to “tree houses,” which critics labeled antisemitic.

Political Polarization Reaches City Hall

With the June 24 Democratic primary approaching, polls show Cuomo holding a commanding lead, with Mamdani in second place. The rest of the field remains in single digits.

Still, Mamdani’s campaign, fueled by grassroots energy and progressive fundraising, has defied expectations. He remains committed to framing the race around foreign policy’s moral implications, even as critics argue he is allegedly overlooking the core responsibilities of a mayor.

Read more: Current Israeli policies in Gaza most extreme since Oct 7: UN experts