Asian Wave Alliance Endorses Andrew Cuomo for Mayor

October 3, 2025

For Immediate Release

New York City – Asian Wave Alliance (AWA) proudly endorses Andrew Cuomo for Mayor of New York City. As a three-term governor, Cuomo understands the critical issues facing our community—affordability, public safety, and education, and can deliver results. 

This election is one of the most consequential in New York City’s recent history. AWA has deep concerns that NYC will fall into the hands of an inexperienced 33-year-old democratic socialist. He will implement dangerous public safety policies like defunding the police, eliminating the gang database, legalizing prostitution — quality of life will rapidly deteriorate. In contrast, Andrew Cuomo has committed to hiring 5,000 police officers to ensure NYC streets and public transportation are safer for everyone.

“I can’t emphasize enough how important it is to families to have a city that’s affordable, safe, and without the chaos” said Jean Hahn, Vice President of AWA, “I look forward to a mayor like Andrew Cuomo who can get NYC back on the right track by creating jobs without raising taxes and destroying the quality of life many of us we have worked so hard to build.”

On education, Cuomo has promised to keep the SHSAT, double the number of Specialized High Schools, and expand seats in Gifted and Talented programs. This will give NYC students more opportunities to thrive – a stark contrast to Zohran Mamdani who wants to revive former Mayor Bill de Blasio’s education policies which took away opportunities away from working & middle class families including the elimination of G&T programs. 

“Andrew Cuomo’s vision for NYC education aligns with what Asian families want – more excellent schools,” said Yiatin Chu, President of AWA. “With his extensive experience and proven leadership, we believe Andrew Cuomo is uniquely prepared to lead the largest city in the nation.”

Additionally, AWA endorses Mark Levine for Comptroller. As Manhattan Borough President, he earned the affection and respect of Chinatown residents. Mr. Levine has done extensive outreach to Asian communities citywide and demonstrated that he understands our priorities. As Comptroller, he will serve as an effective check on the mayor and would be a prudent caretaker of New York City’s pension funds, ensuring fiscal responsibility for NYC’s future.

AWA is also pleased to endorse the following candidates in key City Council races, each of whom aligns with our community’s values and priorities:

In Queens:

Phil Wong for District 30: (Maspeth, Middle Village, Glendale, Elmhurst, Rego Park and parts of Ridgewood) As a member of AWA, Phil Wong has worked tirelessly to advocate for the preservation of Specialized High Schools and to oppose poorly planned homeless shelters in residential neighborhoods. His common-sense approach ensures that our community’s needs are represented with integrity on the City Council.

Vickie Paladino for District 19 (re-election): (College Point, Whitestone-Beechhurst, Bay Terrace-Clearview, Murray Hill-Broadway Flushing, East Flushing, Flushing-Willets Point, Fort Totten, Auburndale, Bayside, Douglaston-Little Neck, Alley Pond Park) Vickie is a steadfast voice for families, consistently putting her district’s needs first. As a member of the Common Sense Caucus, her commitment to public safety and community priorities makes her an essential advocate for Northeast Queens.

Sandra Ung for District 20 (re-election): (Murray Hill-Broadway Flushing, East Flushing, Queensboro Hill, Flushing-Willets Point, Kissena Park, Pomonok-Electchester-Hillcrest, Fresh Meadows-Utopia, Cunningham Park, Auburndale, Flushing Meadows-Corona Park) Representing one of the fastest-growing areas of New York City, Sandra’s sensible approach to addressing local concerns and her collaborative work with fellow council members and City Hall have served her district well.

In Brooklyn:

Susan Zhuang for District 43 (re-election): (Dyker Heights, Bensonhurst, and parts of Bath Beach, Gravesend, Sunset Park, Borough Park, Mapleton-Midwood, Gravesend) Susan has been a fierce advocate for her constituents, particularly in fighting against the ill-suited siting of homeless shelters. Leveraging her newly earned political capital and as a member of the Common Sense Caucus, she champions the interests of the Asian community citywide, making her an indispensable leader.

George Sarantopoulos for District 47: (Bay Ridge, Coney Island, Sea Gate, and parts of Dyker Heights, Bath Beach & Gravesend) George’s common-sense platform prioritizes public safety, small businesses, and education—values that resonate deeply with the Asian community. His election to the City Council will strengthen our voice and ensure our concerns are addressed.

U.S. citizens 18 years or older have until October 25, 2025 to register to vote at e-register.vote.nyc. If you are already registered, a mail-in ballot can be requested at requestballot.vote.nyc/earlymail today. We urge everyone to make our voices heard and vote on November 4, 2025, to secure a brighter future for our homes, our children, and our city. Asian Wave Alliance believes this slate of candidates represents the best path forward for our community and our values. 

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