Joseph Hernández, a Cuban entrepreneur, has officially announced his independent candidacy for the mayoralty of New York City. His primary aim is to thwart what he perceives as a communist threat posed by Democrat Zohran Mamdani. Born in Camagüey, Hernández immigrated to the United States at the age of seven. Raised in a modest household, he is the son of a former political prisoner and a mother who worked as a house cleaner.
Hernández presents himself not as a traditional politician but as a concerned citizen who has reached his limit and seeks to restore order and prosperity to the city. “I know communism. I lived it. I remember the bread and meat lines. I don't want that for New York,” he stated during his initial press conference at Quisqueya Plaza in Upper Manhattan, where he launched his campaign.
Key Proposals of Hernández's Campaign
A notable part of Hernández's platform includes reinforcing the Police Department, supporting small businesses through a direct line to city hall, and reallocating funds to repair roads and upgrade infrastructure. He also extends a call to the Latino community, which he feels has been overlooked. “We don't have a voice. It's time to speak up so we are heard,” he emphasized, noting that Latinos comprise approximately 2.5 million of the city's residents.
The Cuban American candidate stresses his non-alignment with either the far right or the far left, championing a moderate approach.
Meet Zohran Mamdani: Hernández's Main Opponent
Zohran Mamdani, a young state assemblyman of Ugandan and Indian descent, stands as Hernández's chief political opponent. He made history by being the first Muslim to secure the Democratic nomination for mayor. His campaign resonates with young people, immigrants, and progressives through proposals like free public transit, universal childcare, and rent freezes. Mamdani faced allegations of falsifying his background on university applications in the U.S., which Hernández has highlighted in his campaign.
Mamdani's campaign heavily leans on his identity and political activism, condemning Islamophobic threats and advocating for equity and social justice. His initiatives have been praised by social movements but criticized for their questionable financial sustainability.
Besides Hernández and Mamdani, the current mayor Eric Adams and former governor Andrew Cuomo are also in the race as independents. “We're going to take back New York,” Hernández declared, positioning himself as the alternative against the spread of socialism in the city.
FAQs on New York City's Mayoral Race
Who is Joseph Hernández?
Joseph Hernández is a Cuban businessman who immigrated to the United States at age seven. He is running as an independent candidate for the mayoralty of New York City.
What are Joseph Hernández's main campaign proposals?
Hernández aims to strengthen the Police Department, support small businesses, and modernize infrastructure. He also advocates for increased representation of the Latino community in New York City.
What distinguishes Zohran Mamdani's campaign?
Zohran Mamdani, a state assemblyman, focuses on progressive policies such as free public transportation and universal childcare. His campaign emphasizes social justice and equity.