In a dramatic display of dissent, throngs of protesters gathered just down the block to vehemently denounce Andrew Cuomo's candidacy for mayor. The 67-year-old career politician faced accusations of being a “corrupt power abuser” and a “groper,” with demonstrators alleging that he lied and bullied women during his time in office. This stark contrast highlights the significant challenges Cuomo must overcome as he attempts a high-stakes comeback following his resignation in 2021 amidst a swirl of sexual harassment allegations that he continues to deny.
Despite the surrounding controversy, Cuomo enters the race as the presumed front-runner, bolstered by a lead in the polls, financial support from a supportive PAC, and nearly universal name recognition. However, as he steps back into the political arena, he will undoubtedly face intense scrutiny and criticism. His return to the podium reveals his accustomed control, reminiscent of his days as a powerful and often feared governor. Cuomo's campaign will not only contend with public backlash but also with challenges posed by rivals such as Mayor Eric Adams and lesser-known but equally combative candidates vying for attention in the upcoming June 24 primary.
At the event, journalists and supporters had to navigate through multiple checkpoints and wear color-coded wristbands for security. A coach bus transported supporters, alongside numerous union members who arrived at the rally. Interestingly, a union member revealed to POLITICO that many attendees were unaware they were at a Cuomo event, having received text messages from union leadership that framed it merely as a “valuable opportunity” to “connect, collaborate, and enhance their engagement.”
To maintain control of the event, Cuomo's campaign enlisted the help of two firms, Mercury Public Affairs and North Shore Strategies, to ensure that no protesters or disruptors could gain entry. However, managing a New York City mayoral race proves challenging, as candidates frequently encounter unpredictable situations, including vocal residents, angry demonstrators, and inquisitive journalists eager to pose challenging questions.
As soon as Cuomo's launch video was released, campaign rivals wasted no time criticizing his record. Brooklyn state Senator Zellnor Myrie expressed discontent, stating, “We deserve better than former politicians clinging to power for clout.” Nonetheless, inside the NYC District Council of Carpenters building, Cuomo was met with a packed crowd displaying signs bearing his name. “One of the lessons I learned was when you are doing well you have a lot of friends,” Cuomo remarked, although he refrained from elaborating further. He acknowledged the support of City Council member Farah Louis and Assemblymember Eddie Gibbs, both of whom had previous ties to the current mayor.
During his address to supporters, Cuomo highlighted major infrastructure projects he spearheaded throughout his decade-long tenure in Albany, including the refurbished LaGuardia Airport, the Moynihan Train Hall, and the Mario M. Cuomo Bridge. He also took the opportunity to criticize the left wing of his party for advocating cuts to police budgets following the murder of George Floyd. “One of the real mistakes that was made was cutting the police,” he told veteran reporter Marcia Kramer, before swiftly exiting behind a curtain, evading further questions from the media.
Cuomo's legal team, led by lawyer Rita Glavin, defended their controversial move to subpoena the gynecological records of one of his alleged sexual harassment victims. “It is absolutely pertinent, relevant,” she stated, emphasizing the confidentiality agreement that restricted her from providing further details. Glavin expressed a willingness to explain the necessity of these records, referencing the potential lifting of the confidentiality agreement.
Meanwhile, a coalition, including the New York Working Families Party, rallied under the banner “Women Against Cuomo” just outside the event. Ana María Archila, co-director of the organization, remarked, “The contrast could not be starker,” highlighting the men entering the Carpenter’s Union HQ while women protested outside. “We have not forgotten the stories of the women that came forward. We have not forgotten the ways that Andrew Cuomo abused his power with his female employees,” she asserted.
As Cuomo’s campaign progresses, rivals are poised to capitalize on his past governance, arguing that he harmed New York City during his time as governor, often out of spite for then-Mayor Bill de Blasio. City Comptroller Brad Lander criticized Cuomo’s approach, stating, “Pissing matches, self-aggrandizement and fear-mongering … we just see this pattern time and time again.” He specifically cited Cuomo’s funding decisions related to the MTA and a state-funded voucher program for individuals exiting homeless shelters. Lander concluded that Cuomo's campaign launch was “underwhelming,” noting that few prominent figures from elected office or leadership roles chose to support him in this crucial moment.
