The New York mayoral race / Curtis Sliwa

He is the leader and founder of the Guardian Angels, the civic patrols set up in 1979 to patrol the New York underground system. The only Republican candidate in this election, he is a well-known face on local television and radio, thanks to which he has built his image as a defender of public safety.

He is running for mayor for the third time, having last lost to Eric Adams in 2021. Sliwa is betting everything on law and order: he proposes to hire 7000 new officers, revive some controversial police units and introduce stronger strategies to fight crime and trafficking. He has also promised an overhaul of the social housing system and a pro-animal policy, of which he is a strong supporter.

While declaring himself a Republican, he has distanced himself from Donald Trump, opposing his immigration policies. In the past he has been criticised for the methods of the Guardian Angels, accused of demonising immigrants.

Sliwa still enjoys some popularity, but polls put him far behind, between 14% and 24%. His staying in the race could still affect the final outcome, taking decisive votes away from the anti-progressive camp.