Silence from Democrats on Cuomo bid leaves accuser hurt

In 2021, Lindsey Boylan played a crucial role in prompting Andrew Cuomo to step down as governor of New York when she became the first woman to publicly accuse him of sexual harassment. At that time, Cuomo faced broad condemnation from significant figures, including every New York Democrat in Congress, state legislative leaders, and even then-President Joe Biden. They all unanimously denounced his behavior and urged him to resign.

Fast forward to today, Cuomo is now a prominent contender in the race to become mayor of New York City. However, those same influential Democrats who once stood firm against him now remain largely silent about his bid. To Boylan, this lack of vocal opposition from her former allies feels like a deep betrayal and not merely a fading of the #MeToo movement’s fervor.

In a recent interview, Boylan expressed her frustrations, asserting that the real issue is a wider reluctance across the nation and various issues for leaders to take a stand. She highlighted that while women still fiercely oppose having their rights curtailed, many leaders seem more invested in maintaining their positions than in championing women’s rights, a stance she suggests has only worsened over time.

Cuomo originally resigned after a report from the state attorney general determined he had sexually harassed 11 women, with Boylan among the accusers. Despite this, Cuomo’s mayoral campaign is gaining traction, as key figures in the state and the party neither actively support his candidacy nor vocally oppose it.

Governor Kathy Hochul remarked on Cuomo’s past actions, describing them as “repulsive and unlawful,” but also emphasized the need to address the present realities. She indicated her willingness to work with Cuomo should he win the election. Similarly, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand acknowledged Cuomo’s mistakes but praised his past accomplishments, suggesting the decision rests with the voters. Meanwhile, U.S. Representative Hakeem Jeffries has not endorsed any candidate until the city’s primary election, while the office of U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer chose not to comment.

Cuomo’s potential comeback is attributed to various factors, including his proactive measures to challenge the allegations against him and his significant achievements as governor. Additionally, the current field of mayoral candidates suffers from low recognition, coupled with the persistent disarray in City Hall. Mayor Eric Adams, who is facing corruption charges, is also under fire for his involvement in facilitating an immigration crackdown.

Cuomo’s spokesperson, Rich Azzopardi, defended him by highlighting that despite multiple investigations, no legal proceedings have been initiated. He has accused Boylan of making false claims during her political endeavors while critiquing what he describes as bullying behavior.

Amidst these developments, Boylan remains resolute in challenging Cuomo’s political aspirations. While admitting her disappointment with the lack of outspoken opposition from New York Democrats, she continues to advocate actively against his campaign. Boylan, who experienced Cuomo’s alleged inappropriate behavior firsthand, believes many political figures in New York fear him.

Other former aides have recounted instances where Cuomo made unsavory remarks, initiated unwanted physical contact, or posed inappropriate questions. Although Brittany Commisso filed a criminal complaint claiming Cuomo groped her, the case wasn’t pursued due to a purported lack of sufficient evidence.

Cuomo has openly apologized for offending women but maintains that any investigation into his actions was flawed and driven by political motives. Attorney General Letitia James, who authorized the investigation, briefly pursued the governorship herself following Cuomo’s resignation but eventually withdrew.

Remarkably, Cuomo has garnered endorsements from political figures, such as City Council Member Kamillah Hanks, who pledged her support citing the need for decisive leadership. There is a noted shift in political culture, influenced by former President Donald Trump, which has contributed to a different perception of what constitutes acceptable conduct for public officials. Leigh Gilmore, an expert in the #MeToo movement, highlighted that these shifts suggest allegations that were once deemed disqualifying may no longer hold the same weight.

Cuomo remains optimistic, banking on the sentiment that strong leadership is essential for the city, believing that this perspective will resonate with voters as they contemplate their choices in the upcoming election.