Curtis Sliwa, founder of the crime-fighting group the Guardian Angels, is betting the farm. At 71 years old, he is currently the Republican nominee for mayor of New York City. Sliwa himself comes into the race with a vibrantly interesting biography and campaigning style. As he heads toward the November election, he’s well behind the curve. Attacks Sliwa’s received, as well as threats made to his wife. To make matters worse, skepticism from other powerful figures further nerves his chances for a strong campaign.
Sliwa has cultivated a persona as a flake-ball, rightwing street vigilante crusading for public safety. Unfortunately for him, he’s already conceded as much in acknowledging that his current polling suggests he will only draw 18% of the vote. National Republican officials are urging Sliwa to quit the race. At the same time, billionaire donors like John Catsimatidis and Bill Ackman have publicly speculated on his unviability as a candidate.
In spite of these hurdles, Sliwa is undeterred, reporting that he’s absolutely committed to his campaign. As a result of these “very credible” threats, he has been forced to take extra precautionary measures. He decided to hit the campaign trail with a personal security detail. This decision comes at a particularly precarious moment. He’s still a big proponent of public safety and animal welfare.
Sliwa’s commitment to animal welfare goes beyond politics — he and his wife, Nancy, have fostered and rescued hundreds of cats. His proposal provides a window into his commitment to protect animals. He wants to take advantage of some of the 11 acres surrounding Gracie Mansion to house animals who would be euthanized otherwise.
Even political powerhouses have fired shots of doubt at Sliwa’s candidacy. John Catsimatidis recently suggested that Sliwa should consider stepping down if he does not see improvement in his campaign’s momentum.
“In two weeks from now, if he hasn’t shown any progress, how did Sgt Schultz say it? Machine kaput!” – John Catsimatidis
Additionally, billionaire investor Bill Ackman directly addressed Sliwa on social media, stating that a vote for him would amount to support for his opponent, Zohran Mamdani.
“A vote for Curtis Sliwa is a vote for Zohran Mamdani. Curtis Sliwa, it is time for you to leave the race,” – Bill Ackman
Despite these pressures, Sliwa has remained defiant. He made clear that he refuses to be bought by financial power or big political money pressure.
“Car, Jeep, chauffeur, headquarters to operate out of, helping the Guardian Angels, helping animal welfare – and you know something? If you’re watching out there, you can’t bribe me, buy me, lease me: I’m not for sale.” – Curtis Sliwa
Sliwa’s fighting spirit has even compelled him to announce that he has never in his life shied away from a challenge. The Kansas City businessman is doubling down and claiming he’ll only leave the race in an apocalyptic scenario.
“A Mack truck hits me and I get turned into a speed bump, and they can’t recover me in the ICU. That’s the only way,” – Curtis Sliwa
The political landscape around Sliwa’s campaign has included unique endorsements and criticisms. Joe Lhota, a former Rudy Giuliani deputy mayor in NYC, endorsed Andrew Cuomo while calling Sliwa a “fruit loop.” Comments like that aren’t helping Sliwa build skepticism from within the party’s ranks to support his candidacy.
Sliwa’s approach to politics emphasizes that elections should reflect the voice of the people rather than those of affluent donors or the political elite.
“They don’t get picked by billionaires or the professional political class. That’s not how our elections work,” – Curtis Sliwa
As the election day approaches, Sliwa throws himself into the task of exciting his base. He faces an uphill battle brimming with threats and cynicism. His proactive mix of advocacy makes him a standout in a crowded field of candidates. On the Council, he has fervently advocated for public safety and animal welfare interests.