New York City’s political landscape was rattled once again after Guardian Angels founder and radio personality Curtis Sliwa unleashed another volley against former Governor Andrew Cuomo. Speaking on his midday radio show this week, Sliwa delivered one of his trademark verbal jabs, declaring, “I’d rather be impaled than work for Cuomo,” reigniting a feud that has spanned years.
The comment came during a broader discussion about political comebacks and the culture of loyalty among New York’s political elites. Sliwa, a Republican known for his flamboyant style and bullhorn bravado, mocked the idea of anyone joining Cuomo’s orbit again amid ongoing whispers of the ex-governor’s attempted re-entry into public life.
Long-Running Rivalry Rekindled
This latest remark is far from the first time Sliwa has tangled with Cuomo, whom he has frequently accused of arrogance and corruption. The animosity dates back to Sliwa’s 2021 mayoral campaign, when he repeatedly attacked Cuomo’s administration for what he characterized as “toxic control” over New York’s political machinery.
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“Cuomo has a long history of rewarding yes-men and punishing dissenters,” Sliwa said on air. “You’d have to sell your soul and then buy it back at auction to join his team.”
Cuomo, who resigned in 2021 amid a scandal over sexual harassment allegations—which he continues to deny—has been making subtle public appearances in recent months, hinting at a possible return to politics or public advocacy. Though his political future remains uncertain, his name continues to evoke sharp opinions across the state.
Cuomo Allies Dismiss the Insult
Associates within Cuomo’s circle brushed off Sliwa’s latest outburst. A person familiar with the Cuomo camp’s thinking reportedly dismissed the radio host’s comment as “just another publicity stunt,” suggesting that Sliwa thrives on shock value and media buzz.
“Curtis operates on controversy. That’s his fuel,” the source said. “It’s hard to take him seriously when every sentence sounds like a headline.”
However, Sliwa’s remarks continued to trend across social media platforms, drawing both laughter and applause from his followers. Many users echoed his sentiments, viewing the comment as another trademark moment of Sliwa’s unfiltered energy and working-class defiance.
A Personality Built on Provocation
Born and raised in Brooklyn, Sliwa first rose to prominence in the late 1970s when he founded the Guardian Angels, a volunteer group dedicated to combating crime in New York City’s subways. Over decades, he built a persona defined by tough talk, activism, and a flair for confrontation.
His transition from street patrols to talk radio made him a household name, earning him both dedicated supporters and fierce critics. His 2021 mayoral run, though unsuccessful, solidified his standing as a populist voice for many disillusioned New Yorkers who saw him as an antidote to the city’s political establishment.
Sliwa’s recent comments, delivered with the same passion that defines his broadcasts, signal his ongoing resolve to remain part of New York’s political pulse—no matter how bombastic his messaging becomes.
Cuomo’s Quiet Return to Public View
While Sliwa courts controversy on the airwaves, Andrew Cuomo has been carefully navigating a low-key reemergence. The former three-term governor has appeared at church events and delivered speeches emphasizing social justice, faith, and fairness—an apparent effort to reshape his public image.
Political observers remain divided over Cuomo’s prospects for a serious comeback. Some say his name recognition and experience make him hard to ignore; others believe his past controversies have effectively ended his electoral career. Either way, comments like Sliwa’s keep Cuomo’s name circulating in public debate, even among opponents.
A Clash of Egos and Eras
Sliwa’s remark—hyperbolic as it may seem—reflects a broader cultural divide between old-school, outspoken personalities and a more cautious political class. His style, punctuated by humor, outrage, and theatrical delivery, contrasts sharply with Cuomo’s calculated and disciplined approach to communication.
For many New Yorkers, Sliwa represents a throwback to a louder, grittier era of city politics—a time when verbal warfare was seen as a sign of authenticity. Cuomo, by contrast, embodies the technocratic and sometimes secretive disposition of Albany’s powerbrokers.
“The two of them are mirror opposites,” said one local political analyst. “Cuomo thrives on control; Sliwa thrives on chaos. Put them in the same room, and you’d have enough electricity to power Times Square.”
Public Reactions: Amusement and Agreement
Public reaction to Sliwa’s remark was characteristically mixed, swinging between amusement and agreement. On call-in segments following his statement, listeners flooded the station’s lines with both praise and mockery.
One Brooklyn caller quipped, “Curtis says what we’re all thinking!” while another argued, “He should focus on real issues, not personal feuds.” Online, clips of the outburst quickly went viral, accruing tens of thousands of views within hours.
Even among political cynics, Sliwa’s comment underscored one truth: New York politics remains unrivaled for its blend of theatre, rivalry, and personality.
Looking Ahead: More to Come
As rumors persist about Andrew Cuomo testing the waters for a potential return—either through advocacy roles or a media venture—Sliwa’s ongoing commentary ensures that the former governor won’t escape scrutiny any time soon.
Whether his dramatic quip was an offhand expression or a calculated jab, Sliwa’s words reaffirm his position as one of New York’s most unpredictable and entertaining political voices.
In a city where politics can sometimes feel scripted, Curtis Sliwa continues to deliver the unscripted moments that keep New Yorkers talking.
FAQ
Who is Curtis Sliwa?
Curtis Sliwa is the founder of the Guardian Angels, a radio host, and one-time Republican candidate for New York City mayor.
Why did Sliwa make the “impaled” comment?
He made the remark during a radio discussion about New York politics and political loyalty, expressing disdain for the idea of working with Andrew Cuomo.
What is Andrew Cuomo doing now?
The former governor has made limited public appearances and speeches but has not officially announced a return to politics.
How did people react?
Public responses have ranged from amusement to agreement, with the remark gaining traction across social media.
