Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo Responds to Endorsement for Mayoral Run
Background:
Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has been endorsed by prominent former state comptroller Carl McCall to run for mayor of New York City. Cuomo has not officially declared his candidacy but is polling as the top potential challenger to incumbent Eric Adams in the June primary.
Cuomo’s Response:
In a statement released on Saturday, Cuomo acknowledged McCall’s endorsement and his long-standing relationship with him. Cuomo denied the allegations against him and praised McCall’s moral clarity and experience.
Carl and I have a special bond that starts before me. I first had the pleasure of meeting Carl when I was in my early 20s when he worked with my father, the late Mario Cuomo, as the state's human rights commissioner. And together the two fought to make New York a fairer, more just place for all who live here.
In these divisive and troubling times, his voice is needed more than ever – for his is one of moral clarity, experience, and guided by what is right for the people above all else.
Today, in these uncertain times, and after more than four decades of friendship and counsel, I thank him for his faith in me and for his advice, trust, and confidence. His sentiments are both humbling and deeply meaningful.
McCall’s Endorsement:
McCall’s open letter did not explicitly mention Adams but appeared to criticize the Justice Department’s recent dismissal of corruption charges against him. McCall emphasized the importance of a mayor who could defend New York City against President Trump’s policies.
Donald Trump wants us to fail as a community. For that reason, the leadership of New York City has rarely, if ever, been as vital as it is today. The mayor of New York must not only have the competence and capacity to manage the city's real challenges, but the mayor must have the ability to defend our city and demonstrate a powerful counterbalance to President Trump. The people of New York cannot be represented by someone whose loyalty to the city is compromised – we deserve a Mayor of New York to be for New York.
Cuomo’s Mayoral Campaign:
Despite not formally announcing his candidacy, Cuomo has taken steps that indicate his intention to run. On Valentine’s Day, he released a campaign-style video declaring his love for New York City and its senior citizens. Albany politicians have questioned Adams’ independence from Trump following the dismissal of corruption charges, leading some prosecutors to resign.
Adams’ Response:
In response to the recent developments, Adams has denied any wrongdoing or quid pro quo agreements.
I want to be crystal clear with New Yorkers: I never offered – nor did anyone offer on my behalf – any trade of my authority as your mayor for an end to my case. Never.
Conclusion:
Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has responded positively to an endorsement from prominent former state comptroller Carl McCall for his potential run for mayor of New York City. Cuomo has not officially declared his candidacy but has been actively campaigning and is considered the top potential challenger to incumbent Eric Adams. The mayoral race is expected to be competitive, with Adams facing scrutiny over his relationship with the Trump administration and Cuomo attempting to overcome allegations against him.
