NYC Business Community Opens Doors to Mayoral Hopeful Curtis Sliwa

The business sector in New York City is starting to engage more with GOP candidate Curtis Sliwa, though financial support remains uncertain.

Following recent discussions about Sliwa’s rising poll numbers—despite limited backing—Kathryn Wylde, head of the NYC Partnership, met with the Guardian Angels founder on Thursday. Wylde reports that Sliwa made a strong impression, emphasizing shared interests like animal welfare and his stance on crime and economic growth.

In the meeting, Sliwa outlined his platform focused on crime reduction, tax relief, and cutting red tape in city agencies, including education, which he criticizes for administrative bloat and poor outcomes. Wylde noted her members are increasingly wary about the ability of current front-runners, Mayor Eric Adams and ex-Governor Cuomo, to outperform outsider candidates like socialist Zohran Mamdani, who recently defeated Cuomo in the Democratic primary.

Curtis Sliwa protesting horse-drawn carriages in NYC. — The partnership’s meeting with Sliwa comes amid growing interest in his campaign.

Sliwa’s campaign emphasizes crime prevention as well as streamlining the city’s bureaucracy. He noted that initial business support for Mayor Adams has stalled, with many undecided, and that he needs to demonstrate to business leaders he can govern effectively.

During the meeting, Sliwa was accompanied by Ed Cox, chairman of the New York State Republican Party, and aides from City Councilman Robert Holden, whom Sliwa suggests would join his administration.

Though the business community’s voting power is modest, its financial influence is significant. Sliwa raised only $169,000 recently, compared to Adams’ $1.5 million. In a recent poll, Sliwa held a surprising 22% support, slightly edging out Adams at 13%, and tying with Mamdani (26%) and Cuomo (23%) in a four-way race.

Supporters holding signs for Sliwa. — Supporters rallying for Sliwa, highlighting an emerging political momentum.

Sliwa’s appeal has grown as some business leaders feel the current mayor’s administration faces challenges, especially given Adams’ recent scandals. However, skepticism remains about Sliwa’s unconventional background—never having held elected office, with prior campaigns unsuccessful. Known for hosting a radio show and leading the Guardian Angels since the 1980s, Sliwa’s bid is seen as a fresh outsider candidacy.