Curtis Sliwa: The Unfiltered Voice for New York City
A Familiar Face with a Signature Style
Curtis Sliwa, a well-known figure in New York City, is running for mayor once again. He's not your typical politician. With his signature red beret and straightforward talk, he's been a familiar face for decades.
The Republican Nominee
At 71, Sliwa is the Republican nominee, facing off against:
- State Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani
- Former Gov. Andrew Cuomo
Deep Roots in New York
Sliwa believes his deep roots in New York set him apart. He's been here through thick and thin, unlike his opponents who he says have only had a brief experience in the city.
Crime: A Major Issue
He's not shy about sharing his thoughts on crime, which he sees as a major issue. He argues that the city has become too focused on locking up everyday items like toothpaste instead of addressing real criminal behavior.
The Guardian Angels
His journey started when he founded The Guardian Angels in the 1970s. This group began patrolling the Bronx when crime rates were skyrocketing. Sliwa was just 24 then, working as a night manager at McDonald's. The Guardian Angels quickly grew, covering all five boroughs and even going global.
Criticism of Opponents
Sliwa is critical of his opponents:
- Cuomo's Experience: He dismisses Cuomo's experience, pointing to his resignation due to sexual harassment allegations.
- Mamdani's Resume: He jokes about Mamdani's resume, suggesting it's too short to be taken seriously. Sliwa believes Mamdani's big promises, like free bus fare and universal child care, are unrealistic.
Standing Up to Trump
He's not afraid to stand up to President Donald Trump either. Despite some Republicans urging him to drop out, Sliwa remains steadfast. He's open to negotiating with Trump but makes it clear he's not a MAGA Republican. He positions himself as a working-class candidate, not backed by billionaires.
Connecting with Everyday People
Sliwa acknowledges he can be entertaining, a trait he honed during his time as a talk radio host. He believes connecting with everyday people is crucial. He also openly talks about his love for animals, especially his many rescue cats. He quotes Mahatma Gandhi, saying a society that doesn't care for its animals doesn't care for its people.