NEW YORK — Since Andrew Cuomo stepped down from his role as New York’s governor, there has been widespread speculation about his potential return to politics. On Saturday, Cuomo dispelled any doubts by announcing his candidacy for the office of Mayor of New York City.
Throughout his campaign rollout, Cuomo characterized the city as facing severe problems, positioning himself as the competent leader who could address issues like homelessness and exorbitant housing prices. This declaration, however, was quickly met with opposition from those who argue he shouldn’t be given another chance.
Cuomo resigned from his gubernatorial position in August 2021 amid looming impeachment proceedings. An investigation led by the state’s attorney general revealed that Cuomo had engaged in sexual harassment against at least 11 women. Allegations included unwanted physical contact, suggestive remarks, and unwanted attention regarding their appearance and personal lives. Although one aide filed a criminal complaint, alleging groping, the Albany district attorney declined to file charges, citing insufficient evidence. Democrats, including President Joe Biden and then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, urged Cuomo to resign. Cuomo issued apologies for some actions while denying the most serious allegations.
Among his accusers, Lindsey Boylan, the first woman to publicly speak out, argued against his political return, stressing the continuity of power in certain individuals despite past misconduct. Boylan criticized the notion of allowing such figures to re-enter public life, citing Cuomo’s alleged attempts to undermine the credibility of his accusers.
Cuomo, speaking indirectly about the allegations, acknowledged past mistakes but expressed his readiness to take on the responsibilities of office again and deliver on promises by drawing on lessons learned. He previously attributed his political downfall to “cancel culture.”
Cuomo’s achievements as governor include the legalization of same-sex marriage in 2011, infrastructure improvements like the renovation of LaGuardia Airport, and advancements such as increasing the minimum wage and instituting paid family leave. His administration also initiated significant economic developments, although some programs were marred by corruption scandals.
During the COVID-19 crisis, Cuomo was in the national spotlight, implementing stringent social-distancing mandates and spearheading vaccination efforts. Nevertheless, his administration faced criticism for underreporting nursing home fatality numbers, linked to a controversial pandemic-era policy.
Cuomo’s decision to run for mayor is likely influenced by the current mayoral controversy, with incumbent Eric Adams facing legal troubles over alleged corruption and ties to former President Donald Trump. These issues include accepting unlawful benefits and undermining public trust due to perceived associations.
The Democratic primary landscape features candidates typically further to the left than Cuomo or Adams, leaving the potential for Cuomo’s centrist appeal to attract moderate voters in a field lacking prominent alternative names. Cuomo is banking on the chance that voters may favor his leadership over others, despite his past controversies.
