Andrew Cuomo, the former New York governor who stepped down in 2021 following a sexual misconduct scandal, has launched his campaign for New York City mayor, marking an attempt at a political resurgence in this year’s election.
“Our city is in crisis,” Cuomo stated in a 17-minute video posted on X. “We need government to work. We need effective leadership.”
His announcement comes as current Mayor Eric Adams faces mounting scrutiny over allegations that he struck a deal with the Trump administration to assist in migrant raids in exchange for the dismissal of a federal corruption case against him.
Cuomo, who served three terms as governor, resigned after a state-led investigation concluded he had sexually harassed 11 women, including government employees. The report detailed inappropriate remarks, unwelcome touching, and non-consensual kisses. At the time, President Joe Biden and leading Democrats called for his resignation.
Despite these accusations, Cuomo has consistently denied wrongdoing, though he apologized to anyone who may have felt uncomfortable. His resignation followed a period of national recognition for his leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, a subsequent 2022 report revealed his administration had concealed more than 4,100 COVID-related nursing home deaths. While Cuomo acknowledged delays in reporting, he denied orchestrating a cover-up.
Recent polling suggests Cuomo could be a formidable contender in the Democratic primary, should he formally enter the race. His campaign has already secured the backing of U.S. Congressman Ritchie Torres.
“Andrew Cuomo has the competence to govern the city. He has the courage to stand up to extremist politics – both from the far left and far right,” Torres told the New York Post, adding, “We don’t need a Mr. Nice Guy. We need a Mr. Tough Guy.”
Cuomo’s supporters have launched a political action committee, Fix the City, aiming to raise $15 million for his campaign.
However, his return to politics has not been universally welcomed. Karen Hinton, a former Cuomo aide who accused him of sexual misconduct, voiced strong opposition to his candidacy.
“New York City may elect a mayor who has been rightfully accused of sexual misconduct by several young women who worked for him in up-close positions,” Hinton told the New York Post.
The Democratic primary, scheduled for June, is expected to determine the city’s next leader, as the winner is likely to face little competition from a Republican challenger in November.
Meanwhile, Mayor Adams remains entangled in legal battles. He has denied allegations of fraud and bribery, and a federal judge has delayed his trial while weighing whether to dismiss the case. Despite the ongoing controversy, Adams has refused to step aside from the race.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul, who succeeded Cuomo, recently stated she would not seek to remove Adams from office but would instead focus on limiting his powers.
With the primary election approaching, Cuomo’s entry into the race sets the stage for a high-stakes political showdown, as New York City voters weigh leadership, scandal, and governance in their decision for mayor.
