TL/DR –
Andrew Cuomo, former Governor of New York, announced his candidacy for mayor of New York City, four years after resigning from governorship due to sexual harassment allegations. Cuomo’s campaign launch comes amidst corruption charges against sitting Mayor Eric Adams, which has stalled due to an attempt by President Donald Trump’s political appointees to dismiss the charges. Cuomo faces competition from several other Democratic candidates, while also battling criticism from his past governmental role, infamously marked by a report alleging sexual harassment of 11 women.
Former NY Governor Andrew Cuomo Announces NYC Mayoral Bid
Ex-New York governor Andrew Cuomo’s return to politics sparks interest as he announces his candidacy for New York City mayor four years after his resignation amidst sexual harassment allegations.
“New York City is in trouble. But New Yorkers know what to do when there’s a crisis in leadership. You lead, you act, you do,” Cuomo proclaimed in his campaign launch video.
Listing his accomplishments as governor, Cuomo emphasized his readiness to enact a bold plan to revitalize New York City amidst current Mayor Eric Adams’ corruption scandal.
The Justice Department’s decision to stall the case against Adams adds another element of uncertainty, while a number of Democratic candidates prepare for the June 24 primary.
Criticisms towards Cuomo’s candidacy emerged swiftly, with former city Comptroller Scott Stringer accusing Cuomo of treating NYC as his “personal punching bag”.
Despite high approval during his governorship and regular appearances on CNN during Covid-19, Cuomo’s popularity plummeted as sexual harassment allegations surfaced, leading to bipartisan calls for his resignation. A report by Attorney General Letitia James alleged Cuomo of uninvited touching and groping.
In his resignation speech, Cuomo acknowledged his actions, stating he hadn’t realized societal expectations had changed. He insisted the reason for his departure was to prevent distractions.
Cuomo’s campaign launch video addressed his past mistakes, emphasizing his learning and growth moving forward.
Even before his campaign launch, Cuomo earned endorsement from Rep. Ritchie Torres, D-N.Y., who told the New York Post that “Andrew Cuomo has the competence to govern the city.”
“America loves a comeback, New York loves a comeback,” added Torres.
Cuomo launched his campaign at a Bronx’s Dominican restaurant, endorsed by NY Assembly Member Yudelka Tapia, who highlighted Cuomo’s past work as Governor.
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