A major shift may have shook up the New York City mayoral race after progressive frontrunner Zohran Mamdani received the backing of a powerful Brooklyn pastor who once supported Andrew Cuomo.

According to the New York Daily News, Bishop Orlando Findlayter of East Flatbush announced his support during an event at Medgar Evers College, where several other clergy members also stood with Mamdani. Findlayter is a well-known voice in Black Democratic communities and was crucial in helping Bill de Blasio win Black voter support in 2013. He endorsed Cuomo in the June primary, which Mamdani won by nearly 13 points.

Findlayter says the city’s affordability crisis led him to switch sides. “New York City is an expensive city. Frankly it is a city that we cannot afford,” he said. “That is one of the many reasons I throw my full support behind Assembly member Zohran Mamdani to be the next mayor.” 

Last night, Mamdani and Cuomo faced off in a heated debate last night that lit up social media. The two rivals clashed over housing, policing, corruption, and leadership. Mamdani challenged Cuomo on his track record and questioned whether old political habits can solve new problems. Cuomo fired back and accused Mamdani of being inexperienced, unrealistic, and not supporting Kamala Harris for president, an accusation Mamdani denied.

Cuomo is running as an independent in the general election and remains Mamdani’s top challenger. The election will take place on November 4, 2025, and polling still shows Mamdani holding the lead. Cuomo, however, could benefit from name recognition and institutional ties. That is why Findlayter’s endorsement is so significant. It signals that established community leaders are betting on a new generation of leadership.

Cuomo’s campaign tried to downplay the flip, pointing out that some religious leaders have recently shifted to his side, including Queens imam Fahad Solaiman. They also highlighted support from more than 70 clergy members across all five boroughs last weekend. 

Mamdani continues to ground his campaign in affordability, democracy, and real accountability. He says New Yorkers are tired of politics that protect the powerful instead of the people. With growing support from grassroots organizers and influential clergy, he is positioning himself as the coalition-builder capable of bringing the city together.

The stakes are rising, the race is tightening, and New Yorkers are paying attention.