Curtis Sliwa, the fiery founder of the Guardian Angels vigilante group, is mounting another bid to become New York City's mayor under the Republican banner. The controversial figure, instantly recognisable by his signature red beret, is bringing his unique brand of street-level politics back to the forefront of the city's political landscape.
Having led the Guardian Angels since their formation in 1979, Sliwa has built a reputation for direct action and confrontation that has both won him admirers and drawn significant criticism. His political career has seen multiple mayoral runs, with his most recent attempt ending in defeat to current mayor Eric Adams.
From Subway Patrols to Political Campaigns
Sliwa's political platform remains consistent with his long-standing public persona. He continues to advocate for aggressive crime-fighting measures and has positioned himself as a vocal critic of current city policies on public safety and homelessness.
His campaign strategy often mirrors the tactics that made the Guardian Angels famous - direct engagement, media savvy appearances, and a willingness to insert himself into contentious public debates. This approach has kept him in the public eye for decades, though it has also limited his appeal beyond his core supporters.
A Controversial Figure in New York Politics
Throughout his career, Sliwa has been no stranger to controversy. His leadership of the Guardian Angels has drawn both praise for community protection and criticism for vigilante tactics. His political statements frequently generate headlines and debate across the city's media landscape.
As he launches this latest campaign, political analysts are watching to see if Sliwa can broaden his appeal beyond his established base. His previous runs have demonstrated strong support in certain constituencies but have ultimately fallen short in citywide elections.
The upcoming Republican primary will test whether Sliwa's distinctive approach to politics can gain traction in a city that has historically favoured Democratic leadership. His campaign promises to bring the same energy and confrontation that has defined his public life since the Guardian Angels first appeared on New York's subways over four decades ago.
