Former Governor Andrew Cuomo is rumored to be considering a run for New York City mayor, with sources reporting that his supporters are spreading the word. This potential bid comes as current Mayor Eric Adams faces federal corruption investigations that have led to the resignation of key officials in his administration. Cuomo’s former aides, including Melissa DeRosa, have been vocal about a possible run, stating that many people are encouraging him to enter the race. However, some close associates, such as former federal prosecutor Steve Cohen and Blackstone executive Bill Mulrow, have denied spreading news of a potential Cuomo candidacy.
Andrew Cuomo resigned as governor in August 2021 amidst allegations of sexual misconduct and controversies surrounding a profitable book deal he made about the COVID-19 pandemic. However, despite these challenges, there is still a significant amount of support for Cuomo among New York City voters, according to DeRosa. She emphasized that Cuomo’s decision to run for mayor would be a personal one for him and his family. Cuomo’s possible entrance into the mayoral race would add to a crowded Democratic primary field, which already includes notable figures like State Senators Jessica Ramos and Zellnor Myrie, City Comptroller Brad Lander, and former Comptroller Scott Stringer as challengers to Adams.
Cuomo would not be the first scandal-scarred politician to attempt a political comeback in New York City. Examples include former Governor Eliot Spitzer, who resigned amidst a scandal involving prostitution, and former Congressman Anthony Weiner, who resigned due to a sexting scandal. Both Spitzer and Weiner made unsuccessful comebacks in a bid for public office. Cuomo himself faced criticism for his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in relation to nursing home policies, during his time as governor. Despite this, Cuomo has defended his decisions and continues to have a base of support within the city.
DeRosa has indicated that Cuomo maintains a strong relationship with Mayor Adams and that there are no definite plans for a mayoral run. A spokesperson for Cuomo stated that he previously mentioned having no plans for the future, adding that nothing has changed. The Cuomo family has a history of political involvement in New York City, with Andrew’s father, Mario, running for mayor in 1977. Additionally, Andrew Cuomo has been using campaign funds for polling to assess the possibility of a political comeback. Overall, the potential entry of Cuomo into the mayoral race adds another layer of intrigue to the already competitive Democratic primary in New York City.
