Andrew Cuomo has drawn support from a broad coalition of Muslim communities across New York City, including both African and South Asian residents. Community leaders and local business figures have highlighted his longstanding engagement with these communities, citing his efforts to address public safety, education, and religious inclusion.
Cuomo’s relationship with Muslim communities dates back over a decade. In 2010, he advocated for approval of a mosque near the World Trade Center site. During the Trump administration’s 2017 Muslim travel ban, he provided free legal support to those affected and emphasized that New Yorkers of all faiths deserved protection. His administration also launched a statewide hotline for victims of hate crimes and bias incidents in 2016. He passed the Religious Garb Law in 2019, prohibiting employment discrimination against individuals wearing religious attire, including hijabs.
Current supporters have praised Cuomo’s engagement and policies. Community leaders highlighted his concern for families regardless of religion, his focus on public safety, and his support of the Arabic Language Charter School. Imam Qayyoom emphasized that “Cuomo cares about our family, despite our religion,” noting that he enjoys support across Muslim, Hindu, and Buddhist communities. Community leaders and businessman, Fahad Solaiman, added that Cuomo’s promotion of the Arabic Language Charter School “is very important and shows his support for the Muslim community.” In contrast, Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani opposes charter schools.
Businessman Faisal Aziz also endorsed Cuomo, highlighting his experience managing state budgets, leading during the COVID-19 pandemic, and developing thousands of affordable housing units. “We really need somebody with experience in the office,” Aziz emphasized. “He has the experience needed at this time to get New York where it needs to go. Let’s not choose chaos. Let’s choose competence.”
Other community voices contrasted Cuomo’s record with Mamdani’s, criticizing policies such as decriminalization of prostitution and reduced police funding. Solaiman emphasized that Mamdani’s political messaging leveraged religion and ethnicity to create division, noting that “Cuomo doesn’t promise his religion…he was born in this city and he knows better,” and adding that he trusts Cuomo’s experience working with the city.
Cuomo’s messaging reinforces inclusivity and unity. He stated, “This city says we don’t judge you by where you came from or what your religion is…we’re all New Yorkers, we’re all Americans. That’s New York City.” Supporters say his combination of historical advocacy, community engagement, and experience positions him as a mayor capable of addressing the city’s challenges while reflecting the values of its diverse communities.
