Former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo met with civil rights leader Rev. Al Sharpton on Friday as Cuomo seeks to build support in his bid for New York City mayor, posting a photo of the meeting on social media as polls show him trailing front-runner Zohran Mamdani.
Cuomo posted the image on his account with the caption, "Great breakfast catching up with my old friend, @real_sharpton." Sharpton also shared the photo and said the two had a "breakfast meeting," adding that Mamdani would appear on his MSNBC program "PoliticsNation" this weekend.
The meeting comes as Cuomo, who resigned the governorship in 2021 amid allegations of sexual misconduct, seeks endorsements from influential figures in New York politics and the city's Black community. The New York Post reported that Cuomo asked Sharpton to "have an open mind" about the mayoral contest.
Sharpton has longstanding ties to Cuomo and his family. He told reporters he has known Andrew Cuomo for about 40 years, saying he was "very impressed with Mamdani" while underscoring his long relationship with the former governor. Sharpton did not announce an endorsement on Friday.
Zohran Mamdani, a state assemblyman who identifies as a Democratic socialist, has emerged as the Democratic front-runner in the crowded race to succeed Mayor Eric Adams, according to recent polling. Mamdani's campaign has focused on housing, public safety and economic issues affecting working-class neighborhoods, and his growing support has prompted attention from both allies and rivals in the field.
Cuomo's return to New York politics has been marked by efforts to reintroduce himself to voters and to court leaders who can influence turnout in key constituencies. The breakfast with Sharpton followed a series of public appearances and campaign stops by Cuomo across the city this summer and fall.
Political operatives and observers say endorsements from prominent community leaders can be influential in New York City's low-turnout primaries, where organized outreach and established networks often determine outcomes. Sharpton has previously played a role in municipal and statewide contests, though his endorsements have varied by race and cycle.
Neither Cuomo nor Sharpton disclosed details of any agreed-upon support or coordination following Friday's meeting. Cuomo's campaign did not immediately provide comment beyond the social media post. Sharpton indicated he planned to continue public engagement with candidates, including hosting Mamdani on his program.
The mayoral field remains fluid, with several Democrats competing for the nomination. Campaign dynamics will continue to evolve as candidates seek endorsements, organize voter outreach, and participate in debates and media appearances ahead of the primary.
As the contest progresses, Cuomo faces the dual task of overcoming past controversies and building a coalition capable of outpacing an ascendant Mamdani campaign that has resonated with segments of New York's progressive electorate.
