Andrew Cuomo Mounts Comeback, Launches Campaign for NYC Mayor Years After Resignation

The Former Governor’s Journey Back to Politics

Andrew Cuomo, the former governor of New York and arguably one of the biggest names in state politics, has officially entered New York City’s race for mayor. The move by the 56th governor of New York has been long-anticipated as many political insiders considered it only a matter of time before Cuomo threw his hat in the ring.

Cuomo’s Campaign Platform

Cuomo made his candidacy official on Saturday, announcing his candidacy in a 17-minute video uploaded to his campaign website. In that video, Cuomo pitches his return as a way to pull the city from social and political turmoil, highlighting moderate positions on crime and his long history of political accomplishments.

“Our city is in crisis,” Cuomo said. “That’s why I am running to be Mayor of New York City.”

Opposition and Scandals

Cuomo’s return to politics is not without controversy. He resigned from office in August 2021, amid sexual harassment allegations, which he staunchly denies. The Department of Justice (DOJ) investigation found that Cuomo subjected at least 13 women to a “sexually hostile work environment” while in office. Cuomo’s office instead worked to protect the then-governor from further accusations — and his senior staff retaliated against four of the women he harassed, the DOJ said.

Furthermore, Cuomo’s administration came under scrutiny for its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic in nursing homes. The Cuomo administration required nursing homes to readmit recovering COVID-19 patients, which led to a surge in deaths among long-term care residents.

DOJ Investigation into Sexual Harassment

In January 2024, the Department of Justice found that Cuomo repeatedly subjected female employees to unwelcome, non-consensual sexual contact, ogling, unwelcome sexual comments, gender-based nicknames, comments on their physical appearances, and/or preferential treatment based on their physical appearances. Cuomo’s office instead worked to protect the then-governor from further accusations — and his senior staff retaliated against four of the women he harassed, the DOJ said.

Cuomo’s attorney, Rita Glavin, said the former governor “did not sexually harass anyone.” She claimed that the DOJ investigation was “based entirely on the NYS Attorney General’s deeply flawed, inaccurate, biased, and misleading report.”

COVID Nursing Home Response

The Cuomo administration’s handling of the pandemic in nursing homes was also under scrutiny. The administration required nursing homes to readmit recovering COVID-19 patients, which led to a surge in deaths among long-term care residents. Cuomo was criticized for initially withholding information about the death toll in nursing homes, with some figures only being released later.

Opposition and Endorsements

Despite entering the race behind a large pack of Democratic competitors and with less than four months to go until the primary, Cuomo has received a surprising amount of attention and endorsements. Congressman Ritchie Torres, a Democrat from the Bronx, recently endorsed Cuomo, saying the city needs “a Mr. Tough Guy.” At a candidates forum held by District Council 37, many on the stage took shots at Cuomo, as well as current Mayor Eric Adams, who was not in attendance.

Conclusion

Andrew Cuomo’s return to politics is a bold move, coming on the heels of scandals and controversies that led to his resignation as governor. While he faces stiff opposition from a crowded field of Democratic candidates, Cuomo’s name recognition and funding could make him a formidable opponent in the primary.

Frequently Asked Questions

* What is Andrew Cuomo’s platform for the NYC mayoral race?
+ Cuomo’s platform focuses on moderate positions on crime and his long history of political accomplishments.
* What are the controversies surrounding Cuomo’s candidacy?
+ Cuomo resigned from office amid sexual harassment allegations, which he denies. He also faced criticism for his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic in nursing homes.
* Will Cuomo face opposition in the primary?
+ Yes, Cuomo will face a crowded field of Democratic candidates, including Comptroller Brad Lander, state Senator Jessica Ramos, and former city Comptroller Scott Stringer, among others.