Mayoral candidate Jim Walden pledges to reject any super PAC funding, distancing himself from former Governor Cuomo.
Jim Walden, an independent candidate for mayor of New York City, is taking a bold stance against super PAC influence in political campaigns. As the 2025 mayoral race heats up, Walden has publicly committed to disavowing any super PAC that might form to support his candidacy. This decision comes amidst heightened scrutiny of campaign financing, particularly as major contenders like former Governor Andrew Cuomo have benefited significantly from super PAC expenditures.
Walden, a former federal prosecutor, has focused his campaign on combating public corruption and promoting government integrity. He detailed his anti-corruption agenda in a 12-point integrity plan shared ahead of its formal release. A key component of this plan is Walden’s explicit rejection of super PAC involvement in his campaign, asserting, “I do not want any of my supporters to form a PAC to support my campaign. If one is started by any supporters, I will publicly disavow it.” Additionally, he pledged to return any contributions from individuals who attempt to finance a PAC on his behalf.
Despite having a relatively low profile in citywide politics, Walden has made notable strides in fundraising, amassing around million for his campaign. He acknowledges that he has a network of wealthy friends and supporters who could be inclined to establish a PAC in his favor, paralleling the financial backing that Cuomo has received.
If elected, Walden’s commitment to campaign integrity would extend beyond disavowing super PACs. He intends to implement a “do not call” list at City Hall, which would include the names of those who organized or contributed to any PAC supporting him. Under this policy, city officials would be prohibited from engaging with individuals on the list regarding city governance issues.
Walden emphasizes the importance of maintaining the integrity of the electoral process, asserting, “No sane person would start a PAC under these conditions,” and reiterating his belief that New Yorkers deserve an election free from PAC interference. He further criticized Cuomo, suggesting that the former governor prioritizes winning over ethical conduct and is more concerned with campaign financing than principles.
In response to Walden’s low profile and campaign stance, Cuomo’s spokesperson dismissed his threats as inconsequential, referring to a past disagreement Walden had with a parody account. As Walden and Cuomo vie for attention in the June primary, the financial dynamics of their respective campaigns underscore the evolving landscape of political funding in New York City. Cuomo’s campaign is buoyed by the Fix the City super PAC, which has invested more than million to support his bid, raising significant ethical and legal questions among campaign finance watchdogs.
The mayoral race is poised to further illuminate the tensions surrounding campaign financing, with Walden’s commitment to a PAC-free election serving as a potential catalyst for broader discussions on the role of money in politics in New York.
