Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo is making a political comeback by running for Mayor of New York City. Cuomo, who resigned in 2021 amid scandals, is now positioning himself as the leader New York needs during what he calls a “crisis.”
His campaign promises strong leadership and effective governance as he challenges the current mayor, Eric Adams, and other Democratic candidates.
Cuomo’s Announcement and Campaign Message
Cuomo announced his candidacy through a post on X (formerly Twitter) and a 17-minute campaign video. In his message, he emphasized the need for strong leadership and effective government action.
“Our city is in a crisis. That is why I am running for Mayor of New York City,” Cuomo wrote. “We need the government to function. We need effective leadership.”
In his campaign video, Cuomo highlighted some of his major achievements as governor, including:
- Legalizing same-sex marriage in New York.
- Rebuilding LaGuardia Airport, a major infrastructure project.
- Leading New York through the COVID-19 crisis.
Cuomo assured voters that his experience at various levels of government makes him the right person for the job.
Cuomo’s Resignation and Controversies
Cuomo’s return to politics comes after his resignation in August 2021, following allegations of sexual harassment. While he denies these allegations, an investigation by the U.S. Justice Department (DOJ) concluded that he created a “sexually hostile work environment” for at least 13 women.
In January 2024, the DOJ announced a settlement acknowledging that Cuomo’s office engaged in a pattern of sexual harassment and retaliation, violating the Civil Rights Act of 1964. However, Cuomo’s attorney, Rita Glavin, dismissed the findings as a “political settlement without an investigation” and claimed that the report was biased.
A Crowded Race for New York City Mayor
Cuomo joins a highly competitive race to unseat Mayor Eric Adams. Other Democratic candidates in the race include:
- State Senator Zellnor Myrie
- City Comptroller Brad Lander
- State Senator Jessica Ramos
- State Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani
- Former Comptroller Scott Stringer
- Former State Assembly Member Michael Blake
Cuomo’s Fundraising Advantage
One of Cuomo’s biggest strengths in the race is his strong financial backing. On Wednesday, his allies filed paperwork to create a super PAC called Fix the City. The group aims to raise $15 million, which is more than twice what Mayor Adams’ campaign raised in 2021.
Cuomo’s Political Experience
Andrew Cuomo comes from a political family—his father, Mario Cuomo, served as Governor of New York. Before becoming governor, Andrew Cuomo had an extensive political career, including:
- Serving as U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development under President Bill Clinton.
- Serving as New York’s Attorney General before becoming governor.