Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo officially declared his candidacy for mayor of New York City on Saturday, March 1, 2025. The announcement came via a 17-minute video posted on social media, during which he stated, "Our city is in crisis. That’s why I am running to be Mayor of New York City. We need government to work. We need effective leadership." This marks Cuomo's return to politics after stepping down amid severe allegations of sexual harassment and misconduct.
The former governor, who served from 2011 to 2021, faced tremendous public backlash after investigations found he had sexually harassed at least 11 women, including state employees. Reports pointed to instances of inappropriate touching and unwanted comments, and led to demands from prominent Democrats, including President Joe Biden, for him to resign. With allegations still hanging over his head, Cuomo's return to the political scene raises pressing questions about his past and what effectiveness he can bring to the city today.
Cuomo's candidacy positions him against incumbent NYC Mayor Eric Adams, who is grappling with his own scandal involving federal corruption charges. Cuomo's experience leading New York through the COVID-19 crisis had initially garnered him high approval ratings, but his fall from grace nearly rendered his political ambitions obsolete.
While announcing his campaign, Cuomo acknowledged his imperfections: "Did I always do everything right in my years of government service? Of course not. Would I do some things differently knowing what I know now? Certainly. Did I make mistakes? Some painfully? Definitely." This introspection may resonate with voters, but his critics remain vocal.
Brad Lander, the current city comptroller, seized the opportunity to criticize Cuomo just minutes after his announcement, stating, “Andrew Cuomo is for himself and only himself, and is hoping New Yorkers will forget his disastrous record for our city of endless scandals, destroying the subway, and cutting basic services.” With the Democratic primary approaching on June 24, Lander and other candidates, including state Rep. Zohran Mamdani and state Senators Jessica Ramos and Zellnor Myrie, frame their runs as viable responses to Cuomo's controversial past.
Despite this criticism, Cuomo seems to have fired up some support. Bronx Congressman Ritchie Torres recently endorsed him, stating, "Andrew Cuomo has the competence to govern the city. He has the courage to stand up to extremist politics — both from the far left and far right. We don’t need a Mr. Nice Guy. We need a Mr. Tough Guy." Such endorsements reflect Cuomo's notable name recognition, which might give him leverage over his challengers.
Cuomo's campaign video highlighted his vision for New York City, expressing his determination to confront pressing issues such as crime and homelessness: "It won’t be easy, but I know we can turn the city around, and I believe I can help." He emphasized action and experience, qualities he feels are necessary to revitalize New York.
The turmoil surrounding the current city administration under Adams provides Cuomo with fertile political ground. Adams has found himself embroiled in scandal, with allegations of corruption attached to his tenure as he continues to fight to retain public trust. Cuomo's perception as tough on leadership, combined with the chaos ensnaring Adams, positions him advantageously among Democratic voters yearning for strong leadership amid crises.
Cuomo enters the race with the potential benefit of significant financial backing. Reports indicate supporters have established political action committees aiming to raise considerable funds for his campaign. Such financial resources could bolster the state's biggest political comeback attempt since the #MeToo movement changed the scope of accountability for public officials.
Despite his significant challenges, Cuomo’s bid falls within the larger cultural movement of hope for redemption and political second chances. The question remains whether voters will view him through the lens of his past scandals or instead favor his proposals to advance the city’s governance.
And as excited energy fills his campaign events, underscored by targeted messaging on public safety, Cuomo hopes to translate early polling favorability—showing around 32% preferring him over the field of candidates—into actionable votes by June's primary.
Andrew Cuomo’s comeback efforts not only encapsulate the habit of American politics for rebranding narratives but may also reveal new fault lines within the Democratic Party as they navigate the realities of past governance mistakes and shifting voter sentiments. Whether he can effectively balance the weight of his past with the promises of his future will be put to the test as the election date inches closer. Time is limited, but for Cuomo, four years after leaving office, the chance to reclaim leadership is present and palpable.