Curtis Sliwa’s Comeback: Can the Red Beret Leader Win NYC’s Mayoral Race in 2025? Curtis Sliwa is one of the most controversial and colourful public figures in New York City.

By BS Khabar 24 News [25-06-2025]

 🧢 Who is Curtis Sliwa?

Born on March 26, 1954, Curtis Sliwa is one of the most controversial and colourful public figures in New York City. Born and raised in New York, he established the Guardian Angels in 1979, a voluntary citizen patrol with red berets and karate-trained members that patrol the streets and subways to combat the rising crime rate.

Over the years, Curtis Sliwa not only rose to prominence as a crime-fighting figure but also became a well-known conservative voice on WABC-AM radio, influencing discussions about law and order.

The Current Run for City Hall

After losing to Eric Adams in 2021, Sliwa is making a second attempt as the Republican contender for mayor of New York City in 2025.
He became the party’s standard-bearer after winning the GOP primary in an uncontested fight on June 24.

Since the beginning, Sliwa has established himself as the sole voice that takes public safety and quality-of-life issues seriously. He has highlighted subways, fare evasion losses (an estimated $8 million), trash, and homelessness as important problems in interviews, such as on Good Day New York.

Additionally, he emphasises his “outer boroughs” appeal and his compassion for animal welfare, even bringing his pet Gizmo along for a 2021 referendum.

A Viable Candidate?

Sliwa is placing a daring wager on the city’s strained political landscape. He sees an opportunity to get support from erratic Democrats, independents, and the GOP since Eric Adams is running on his own and the Democratic Party is probably going to choose a far-left candidate (like Zohran Mamdani).

He recently said that there is a “real probability” that he will be elected mayor of New York City, citing voter annoyance with present policies, migrant shelters, rising rent, and violence.

He said, “I know Republicans are going to support me so I can be the next mayor”

Gaining Momentum

George Pataki, a former Republican governor, recently praised Sliwa’s commitment on peace and order and his extensive understanding of the city.

The “weakest ever” Democratic primary, according to Pataki, could draw disgruntled Democrats and independents to Sliwa.

Two days after the primary, on June 26, Pataki will be the star of a GOP fundraiser for him.

This support from a well-known former governor gives Sliwa’s campaign credibility and unites the GOP, which helps his campaign raise money.

Biggest Strengths & Challenges

✅ Strengths:

• Brand recognition: Whether you love or loathe him, New Yorkers recognize the red beret and crime crusade.
• Focused messaging: Crime, quality of life, homelessness—he is relentless.
• Political fragmentation: With Adams going independent and Democrats possibly nominating a left‑leaning candidate, the vote may split.

❌ Challenges:

• Electoral math: Republicans are a small slice in NYC—his path depends on attracting cross‑party votes.
• Moderate backlash: Voters who dislike both left and right extremes may shift to an independent, or to Adams.
• Fundraising: His war chest remains weaker than mainstream Democrat rivals

The Road Ahead

Sliwa is now focussing on the general election in November after winning the GOP primary. Sliwa would benefit if the Democratic field nominates young progressive Zohran Mamdani, who won the June 24 primary; moderates and some Republicans might split off.

However, the field might be quite competitive if Eric Adams builds a solid independent base or Andrew Cuomo surprises.

Key Dates:

• June 26: Fundraiser with Pataki – bipartisan attention.

• June 25–26: Democratic results make clear who Sliwa will face.

• November: General election showdown.

  What Sliwa Believes

  Sliwa has stated in recent interviews (such as with Patch) that he is “sick and tired of watching working-class New Yorkers get pushed out of their own city,” citing difficulties with quality of life, crime, and cost of living as his driving forces.
  He adopts a populist stance by criticising “the political class” for making hollow promises and placing a strong emphasis on community involvement and accountability.
  He also attacks Cuomo’s impact on crime policy, calling parole board delays in releasing convicted cop killers a violation of the principles of law and order.

  Final Verdict

  Curtis Sliwa’s campaign combines political ambition, grit, and nostalgia. Modern political theatre meets his red-bereted public safety crusader character. He sees potential with Pataki’s backing and a divided left, but it remains to be seen if NYC’s independent and moderate voters will support him or turn to more centrist candidates.

  Sliwa’s candidature already ensures an exciting trip if you’re searching for pyrotechnics in a city that is typically closed off to the public. Keep a close eye on the general election to see if a citizen-patrol hero can turn notoriety into votes.