Since resigning in 2021 amidst sexual misconduct allegations, former Governor Andrew Cuomo has kept a relatively low profile. However, his recent criticisms of both Mayor Eric Adams and Governor Kathy Hochul suggest a potential bid to return to public office, potentially eyeing either of their jobs.
Cuomo’s sharpened rhetoric has been particularly pointed towards Mayor Adams; in a recent radio interview, Cuomo took aim at key issues under Adams’ administration, such as crime, homelessness, and illegal cannabis shops. He emphasized the need for tangible results, stating, “Do something about the homeless who are dangerous and who are on the street. Close those pot shops tomorrow. Make a real commitment to affordable housing, not a hundred units here, 200 units here… but ‘We’re going to build more affordable housing than any city in the United States’”.
This direct criticism, coupled with his continued outreach to influential labor leaders, indicates that Cuomo is seriously considering a political comeback. His interactions with union leaders reveal a strategic attempt to gauge support and potentially rally backing for a future campaign. According to one labor source, Cuomo is “circling around the wounded prey to see who he’s going to take out.”
Cuomo’s critiques have been heavy on Adam’s but he has also taken jabs at Governor Hochul, suggesting that state and city governments have failed to address post-pandemic issues effectively. Cuomo argued that these unaddressed problems are creating a “downward spiral” in New York. He mentioned, “Remote work is a new reality. I don’t have to go into the city… if I’m worried about quality of life, if the city doesn’t have the same positive energy, I’m not going to go in, and it’s going to get worse”.
Despite his harsh words, Cuomo’s return is met with mixed reactions. Some see his critiques as a bid to reassert his relevance and potentially set the stage for another run for office. Doug Muzzio, a political scientist, noted, “That’s going to be his campaign mantra — I’m going to be the guy who’s going to make things work”.
As Cuomo ramps up his public appearances and maintains connections with key political figures, the speculation around his next move grows. Whether aiming for City Hall or Albany, Cuomo’s actions indicate a readiness to re-enter the fray, armed with his critiques and a promise to “make government work.”
