Andrew Cuomo, the former governor of New York, is gaining significant momentum in his campaign to become mayor of New York City, bolstered by endorsements from two influential labor organizations.
Cuomo, who resigned from his position in 2021 amidst controversy, secured the support of 32BJ SEIU and the Hotel and Gaming Trades Council on Monday. These groups represent a combined workforce of over 120,000 individuals – building service workers and employees within the hospitality sector.
These endorsements are particularly valuable in New York City’s heavily unionized landscape and are expected to solidify Cuomo’s position as a leading candidate heading into the June Democratic primary. His goal is to unseat current Mayor Eric Adams, who faces his own considerable challenges.
“The members of @32BJSEIU and @NYHTC are the backbone of NY,” Cuomo stated on social media. “They clean our buildings, run our hotels, care for our communities, and keep this city moving. Without a strong middle class, no city can survive – let alone thrive – and right now, we are dangerously close to losing them.”
Cuomo emphasized his long-standing relationship with these unions.
“I have fought for and alongside the men and women of 32BJ and HTC for years – their faith in me is a tremendous boost for our campaign and I am proud to have their endorsement,” he added.
Cuomo’s entry into the mayoral race in March significantly altered the dynamics, and he currently holds a substantial lead in both polling and fundraising. Given New York City’s strong Democratic leanings, winning the primary is widely considered tantamount to securing victory in the November mayoral election.
However, Cuomo’s campaign faces scrutiny due to his past legal troubles. He has spent recent years attempting to rehabilitate his image following allegations of sexual harassment, which led to his resignation as governor. Investigations also focused on his administration’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and reports suggesting an underreporting of deaths in state nursing homes. Cuomo consistently denies any wrongdoing.
Incumbent Mayor Eric Adams is navigating a difficult situation of his own. He was indicted last year on five counts related to bribery and fraud, allegations stemming from an alleged scheme involving foreign officials. The case took a dramatic turn when the Justice Department attempted to dismiss charges, leading to the resignation of a federal prosecutor who argued it represented a questionable agreement.
A federal judge recently dismissed the case against Adams but expressed concerns that the Trump administration’s actions “smacks of a bargain.” Subsequently, Adams announced he would abandon his bid for the Democratic primary and pursue re-election as an independent candidate.
- Cuomo launched his campaign in March.
- He is currently the leading candidate based on polling and fundraising.
- Adams faces bribery and fraud charges, leading to his decision to run as an independent.
