A biotechnology entrepreneur originally from Cuba has officially entered the race for New York City mayor, positioning himself against Zoran Mamdani.

Joseph Hernandez announced his candidacy in June as an independent, mainly due to his disagreement with the socialist ideals that Mamdani is advocating.

“I am Joseph Hernandez, running for mayor of New York City, not as a politician but as a concerned citizen. I will be participating in the vote as an independent on November 4th,” he stated. “Let’s bring back New York, together.”

Hernandez expressed to The New York Post that his past experiences have shaped his views significantly. “Having grown up in a socialist communist society, I stand in stark contrast to Mamdani’s views,” he remarked.

He went on to say, “My motivation in this race is driven by my opposition to socialism. I support capitalism because, while it’s far from perfect, it has lifted more people out of poverty than any other system.” Hernandez’s family escaped Fidel Castro’s oppressive regime in Cuba when he was just seven years old, with his father being categorized as a “political prisoner.” Since then, Hernandez has founded multiple healthcare and pharmaceutical enterprises and currently functions as the founder and senior managing partner of Blue Water Venture Partners LLC.

Hernandez indicated that his love for NYC inspires his candidacy, believing his business expertise makes him a suitable candidate. “I’m committed to improving this city,” he added. “Unlike some other candidates, I don’t carry much baggage. I’m a pragmatic businessman with a firm grasp on technology and budgeting.”

His campaign website highlights his intention to tackle the everyday problems facing New Yorkers head-on.

Hernandez’s top priorities include hiring an additional 10,000 police officers, repurposing unused office buildings for housing, utilizing artificial intelligence to clean the streets, enhancing traffic, and modernizing public services.

Since launching his campaign, Hernandez claims to have raised over $300,000 and has received backing from various groups, including local bodegas and small businesses.

As per a Siena College poll on August 12, Mamdani is currently leading with 44% support, followed by former Governor Andrew Cuomo at 25%, Republican Curtis Sliwa at 12%, and independent Eric Adams at 7%. The remainder of the respondents has either chosen other candidates or are undecided.