Mamdani, Blake cross-endorse in progressive power move

In a rare show of political solidarity, New York City mayoral candidates Zohran Mamdani and Michael Blake announced a mutual cross-endorsement during a joint press conference Sunday afternoon in the Bronx. They vow to unite their campaigns behind a shared progressive agenda and a commitment to affordability and social justice.

The candidates, former state legislators and children of immigrants said the move signals their intent to shift the race away from traditional political machines and toward grassroots-driven, people-first policies.

“I am honored to receive the support of Michael Blake as we both seek to turn the page on the broken politics of the past and the corrupt leadership of Andrew Cuomo,” said Mamdani, a Democratic Socialist and current Assembly Member representing Queens. “In an election that can only be won with unity, our partnership is critical to the fight for a city every New Yorker can afford.”

Mamdani credited Blake for his outspoken opposition to former Governor Cuomo and his record of values-driven leadership, adding that he was proud to rank Blake on his mayoral ballot.

Blake, a former Assembly Member, White House aide to President Obama, and ordained reverend, echoed that sentiment.

“Affordability and the true cost of living are the top priorities of most New Yorkers during this mayoral campaign,” Blake said. “To provide bold solutions to the affordability crisis amidst the continued attacks from D.C., we need change and a new generation of leadership.”

He announced he would rank Mamdani as his No. 2 choice in the ranked-choice election, emphasizing that the two share a vision for a “New York City where everyday New Yorkers can thrive, not just survive.”

The candidates highlighted several aligned proposals, including eliminating credit score requirements for housing applications, expanding free and reliable public bus service, hiring 1,000 new mental health professionals, and creating a Department of Community Safety.

“The future of New York depends on putting people over profit and building a city that’s affordable and livable for all of us,” Blake said. “We are both organizers at heart, rooted in the belief that politics must serve the people, not the powerful.”

Mamdani’s legislative record includes helping secure over $450 million in debt relief for taxi drivers, winning $100 million in state budget funds for increased subway service, and leading a successful campaign against a proposed fossil fuel plant in Astoria.

Blake, a native of the Bronx, served three terms in the Assembly and is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., 100 Black Men of New York, and the Prince Hall Masons. Throughout his political career, he has also been a vocal advocate for public safety reform, mental health access, and racial equity.

Observers view the cross-endorsement as a strategic move in a crowded and competitive mayoral field. Ranked-choice voting allows candidates to recommend second-choice rankings to their supporters. Both campaigns said they hope to harness that structure to amplify progressive momentum and challenge centrist frontrunners.

“This moment reflects our shared commitment to standing up for working-class New Yorkers and proactively protecting the most vulnerable—immigrants, tenants, essential workers, the people who keep our city vibrant and alive,” Mamdani said.

The joint appearance concluded with both candidates urging voters to rank Michael Blake and Zohran Mamdani on their ballots. As Blake put it: “Tomorrow begins today.”