Costumed Protester Joins Mermaid Parade with Political Message

A man donned in an eccentric costume resembling former Governor Andrew Cuomo made an appearance at the Coney Island Mermaid Parade, using the event as a platform to address voters.

The individual, who chose to identify himself only as “washed up scum,” sarcastically remarked, “I’m trying to get re-elected on Tuesday and I thought I’d bring my message to the voters.”

Person in Andrew Cuomo mask at the Mermaid Parade holding a sign that says "Vote Washed Up Scum Tuesday". — The parade participant dressed as Cuomo with a sign urging voters to “Vote Washed Up Scum Tuesday”.

The costume featured messy green strings simulating algae, torn-up dress shirt, and a large Cuomo mask. On his back, a sign read “don’t rank me,” referencing New York City’s ranked-choice voting system, where voters can prioritize up to five candidates.

Person at the New York City Mermaid Parade dressed as Andrew Cuomo with a sign that says 'Don't Rank Me'. — Voters in NYC can rank up to five mayoral candidates by preference.

He humorously claimed, “I made the state fill up with as much scum as I could when I was governor and I’d like to do that to the city,” and added that this was his first time participating in the parade.

Currently, Cuomo leads in the Democratic mayoral primary with approximately 55% support, though challenger Zohran Mamdani is gaining ground, cutting the lead in half over the past month.

Andrew Cuomo speaking at a union rally. — Cuomo, who resigned as governor amid controversy, remains a frontrunner in the primary.

With the primary election approaching, voter turnout has surged, with twice as many residents participating in early voting compared to four years ago, according to city election data.