Curtis Sliwa, Republican candidate for New York City mayor, officially opened his new campaign office on Friday, September 5th, drawing a large crowd of supporters and community members. The office, located at 55 Hegeman Avenue, represents part of Sliwa’s strategy to expand his presence in neighborhoods that he says have been “abandoned” by the city’s current leadership.
At the ribbon-cutting and press conference, Sliwa emphasized his roots in Brownsville and nearby East New York, recalling his upbringing in the neighborhood and his decades of activism with the Guardian Angels. “I don’t forget where I’ve lived. I don’t forget where my seeds have been planted,” Sliwa told the crowd. “I am the street candidate, the subway candidate, the people’s mayor.”
Sliwa framed his candidacy as an alternative to Mayor Eric Adams and other Democratic rivals, who he accused of abandoning working-class New Yorkers while spending billions on migrant services. One supporter said bluntly, “Adams sold us out, and he should get out of the race.” Another, who voted for Adams in 2021, said they switched allegiance after seeing “all the money and giveaways for people that don’t even belong in this country … while our communities were left in poverty.”
The event included voter registration, lawn signs and palm cards. Notably, the campaign recorded a party switch from Democrat to Republican, underscoring Sliwa’s appeal to disaffected voters. He also highlighted what he called a new class of “Urban Republicans”— working-class, blue-collar citizens who once formed the backbone of the Democratic Party but who he says are now finding a home in his movement. “We don’t apologize for who we are. We are the party of law and order, the party that protects working people, the elderly, women and children,” Sliwa said.
The day also featured community recognition for Sayf Ramses, a local entrepreneur and organizer who overcame homelessness and challenges in the justice system to become a business owner and leader in Brownsville. Sliwa praised Ramses as an example of resilience and the kind of leadership he hopes to see thrive across New York City.
Janine Aquafredda, candidate for Brooklyn Borough President, was also present, praising Sayf for being a great community leader, organizer and entrepreneur. “The city needs leaders like him and Curtis Sliwa to represent our city,” she said.
The Brownsville office opening follows other campaign stops across the boroughs, including southern Brooklyn and appearances at citywide events such as the West Indian Day Parade. With the general election set for November 4th, and early voting beginning October 25th, Sliwa vowed to keep pressing his message in every neighborhood. “I will never forsake you when I’m mayor,” he promised, to loud applause.
Supporters left energized, with chants of “Curtis, Curtis!” echoing outside the new headquarters. As one attendee put it: “Curtis Sliwa is our only hope — he talks the talk and walks the walk with the people.”
