Former US President Donald Trump has stirred controversy in the Trump New York mayoral race drama by endorsing former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo for mayor. His decision comes with a warning — Trump threatened to cut federal funds if Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani wins Tuesday’s election.

Trump’s backing of Cuomo, a former Democrat now running as an independent, surprised both parties. He dismissed the Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa, urging voters to unite behind Cuomo to stop Mamdani, who leads in the polls.

“If Communist Candidate Zohran Mamdani wins the election, I will provide only the minimum required federal funds to New York City,” Trump declared on his Truth Social platform. The federal government currently provides $7.4 billion annually to the city, about 6.4% of its total budget.

Mamdani, 34, a progressive state assembly member, has attracted young voters with his democratic socialist platform, including higher taxes on the wealthy and expanded public housing. However, his left-leaning stance has alarmed moderates and business leaders.

Also Read: FBR clarification sparks confusion over Active Taxpayers List

Cuomo, once a top Democrat, resigned in 2021 after harassment allegations. Despite the scandal, Trump called him “capable” and the only choice to protect New York from Mamdani’s policies.

Mamdani fired back, saying Trump’s endorsement “shows how closely he and Cuomo are aligned.” The Trump New York mayoral race has now become a national flashpoint — a test of political alliances and the future direction of both parties.