Curtis Sliwa: Subway Campaigning in New York’s Chaotic Mayor Race

New York, NY — Curtis Sliwa is taking his subway campaign to the streets in a bid for mayor of New York City. On September 1, he participated in the 2025 NYC West Indian Day Parade in Brooklyn, showcasing his vibrant persona as the Republican nominee for mayor.

Sliwa, founder of the Guardian Angels, a volunteer crime prevention group, connects with everyday New Yorkers during his subway rides. He boards trains in the back car and engages with riders, asking about their hometowns and schools. His approach fosters a celebrity-like atmosphere, as some passengers express excitement upon seeing him. One man recognized him from a book, while a Staten Island Ferry attendant held the boat for him, saying, “We got you, Curtis.”

This is Sliwa’s second consecutive mayoral run, and he aims to establish himself as a serious contender amid an unpredictable election landscape. His candidacy has triggered conversations about whether he can capitalize on divisions among the Democratic candidates.

Despite an extensive history in New York, which exceeds the city’s crime tracking records, Sliwa feels overlooked in the current race. Polls show him at 15% support, compared to Eric Adams at 9%, with Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani leading at 46%.

While his opponent, President Donald Trump, criticized Sliwa’s pet policies during a recent Fox News appearance, Sliwa’s campaign manager defended him, emphasizing Sliwa’s commitment to animal welfare alongside his platform on crime and affordability. “Curtis is more than just a red beret; he works hard and is concerned about policies,” said New York State GOP Chairman Ed Cox.

Sliwa expressed confidence in attracting voters across party lines, citing his previous performance in the 2021 race. He plans to offer tax cuts while arguing against tax hikes proposed by some of his opponents.

Discussion about Sliwa often contrasts him with established political figures. He is seen by some as an underdog capable of bridging gaps in the fractured Democratic vote. Others, however, wish for a more traditional Republican candidate to take the reins at this crucial moment.

As he navigates the final weeks of the campaign, Sliwa remains focused on his unique campaigning style, which he believes resonates with the general public. Observing the pulse of New York City, he continues to share his vision and recounts stories from his outreach, hopeful that his efforts will make a difference.

“I don’t know, Donald, you’re not a conservative, I’m not a conservative. Let’s make the best of it,” Sliwa said, recalling a moment with Trump from 1986. Regardless of the political dynamics, Sliwa’s distinctive approach and long-standing presence in the community shed light on the evolution of New York’s political landscape.