David Paterson on mayoral election

About David Paterson

David Paterson, the former governor of New York, has been active in New York City mayoral politics. In September 2025, he switched his endorsement from Andrew Cuomo to incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, praising Adams as "dynamic, articulate, perceptive, courageous, and outspoken" and stating that "the scorecard is incredible" regarding Adams's accomplishments. Paterson criticized candidate Zellnor Myrie, comparing him unfavorably to Adams and arguing that Myrie's proposals lack a clear funding source. He also commented on the mayoral race in October 2025, stating that if Myrie wins the primary he would "start disrupting a lot of the apparatus of the city" and that "no socialist government in the history of the world has ever survived." Paterson expressed that Cuomo had recently shown a "kind of humanity" in a campaign commercial and said he thought Cuomo was "prime for a big comeback." In November 2024, Paterson and his stepson were attacked on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. Paterson described the incident, saying his stepson "was holding off as many other people as he could" and that he himself was punched in the face and shoulder. He characterized the alleged attackers as "mischievous kids" rather than juvenile delinquents and praised their parents for holding them accountable. Paterson also linked the attack to broader city issues, questioning "what are all these kids doing out at 8:45 with nothing to do?" and suggesting that attention and resources have been diverted from local youth to address the migrant situation.

Profile compiled from David Paterson's verified public interviews and appearances. See all quotes & transcripts →