The New York City mayoral race reached its final hours on Monday with high drama as President Donald Trump warned that the city would become a “complete and total economic and social disaster” if Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani wins. Trump, in a post on Truth Social, branded Mamdani a “Communist” and announced his endorsement of former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, urging voters to back him instead. “Whether you personally like Andrew Cuomo or not, you really have no choice,” Trump said. “You must vote for him, and hope he does a fantastic job. He is capable of it, Mamdani is not!”

Trump also threatened to limit federal funds to New York City if Mamdani becomes mayor, declaring, “It can only get worse with a Communist at the helm.” His remarks underscored the polarised tone of the contest, as Mamdani, Cuomo, and Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa made last-ditch efforts to mobilise voters before polls opened Tuesday from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Mamdani, 34, a Ugandan-born Indian American and self-described democratic socialist, has surged ahead in polls after upsetting Cuomo in the Democratic primary. He has campaigned on making New York more affordable, vowing to freeze rents for stabilised tenants and expand housing access. His campaign has energised young and first-time voters, particularly South Asians, progressives, and working-class residents.

Cuomo, 67, a three-term governor turned independent candidate, is appealing to moderates and older voters, emphasising his experience and managerial record. He has drawn support from Mayor Eric Adams and faith-based communities, particularly Jewish voters, over his pro-Israel stance.

Sliwa, founder of the Guardian Angels, has maintained a populist campaign but remains far behind.

Analysts say Mamdani’s rise reflects shifting demographics and political realignment in America’s largest city. If elected, he would become New York’s first Muslim mayor—a historic milestone and a reflection of the city’s changing electorate. More than 735,000 residents voted early, nearly quadruple the 2021 total, pointing to heightened public interest.

The race has been marked by fiery exchanges, generational contrasts, and debates over housing, affordability, and international politics. As Election Day arrives, the outcome will reveal whether New Yorkers favour the progressive promise of Mamdani, the experience of Cuomo, or the populist rhetoric of Sliwa in a city long at the crossroads of American politics.