STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — As the New York City mayoral election approaches, volunteers for Zohran Mamdani gathered at Borough Hall in St. George on October 15, 2023, to launch a canvassing effort aimed at mobilizing voters. This event, part of a broader campaign strategy, focused on engaging Staten Island residents ahead of early voting, which begins on October 21.
Supporters of Mamdani, a prominent candidate in the race, emphasized the importance of community outreach. “We know that in the next five to ten years, the Island is going to be completely different,” stated Yesenia Mata of the New York Immigration Coalition Action. She encouraged attendees to unite in their efforts to transform Staten Island from what she described as the “forgotten borough.”
Former U.S. Representative Jamaal Bowman also addressed the crowd, urging them to maximize voter registration and participation. “It’s up to all of us to make sure we have record numbers with early voting,” he said. His call to action highlighted the urgency of the campaign as Election Day draws near.
Community Engagement and Concerns
Assemblymember Marcela Mitaynes, representing parts of Brooklyn, joined the rally, sharing insights from her canvassing experiences on Staten Island. She acknowledged that while many residents are receptive to Mamdani’s message, there are underlying fears, particularly among local business owners still recovering from the pandemic. “It’s been a really interesting experience to talk to folks and hear their concerns,” Mitaynes noted.
Many supporters, like Shahana Masum from Mariners Harbor, cited affordability as a critical issue driving their involvement in the campaign. “My three children were born here, and they left because they cannot afford it,” she explained, highlighting the economic challenges faced by families on Staten Island.
Volunteer Ruben Sibri echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the broad coalition forming around the affordability issue. He expressed surprise at the positive reception he received while canvassing, indicating a potential shift in voter sentiment.
Current Political Landscape
As the mayoral race intensifies, the competition has narrowed to three primary candidates. Former Governor Andrew Cuomo, running as an independent, has made several visits to Staten Island since mid-September, seeking to bolster his campaign. Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa has maintained a visible presence in the borough, participating in various events, including discussions on public safety issues.
Recent polling data from Quinnipiac University reveals that Mamdani currently leads the mayoral race with 46% support, following the withdrawal of Mayor Eric Adams from the contest. Cuomo has gained traction, now holding 33% support citywide and surpassing Mamdani in Staten Island. A previous poll conducted on September 10 showed Mamdani with 45% support, indicating Cuomo’s recent rise in popularity may be drawing from Adams’ former base.
With only days until early voting begins, Mamdani’s campaign is poised to capitalize on community engagement efforts as they seek to solidify their position in a rapidly changing political landscape.
