Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo is positioning himself not just for the mayoralty of New York City, but also potentially eyeing the 2028 presidential race. Cuomo is no stranger to political turbulence, having resigned as governor in 2021 amid multiple allegations of sexual harassment, yet with the current Democratic Party at what many perceive to be its weakest point, he sees an opening to reestablish himself as a significant leader.
The political atmosphere today is markedly different from the summer of 2021 when Cuomo initially stepped down. Over 11 women accused him of harassment ranging from inappropriate remarks to unwanted touching. These claims have resurfaced with renewed vigor since Cuomo's announcement to run for mayor, prompting one of his accusers, Karen Hinton, to state, “Women’s rights will suffer.” Such comments reflect the divided opinions about Cuomo’s potential comeback, highlighting the baggage he carries.
Despite the controversies surrounding him, some Democratic insiders suggest Cuomo could serve as the answer to their leadership crisis. The party is currently without a focal point; President Joe Biden faces criticism for his handling of the economy and foreign policy, leaving many Democrats disillusioned. Cuomo, with his considerable political experience and name recognition, might be seen as the savior who can bring the party back to the center.
Historically, the Democratic Party has faced dire straits before. The last time such bleakness loomed was after three consecutive general election defeats leading to the rise of Bill Clinton, who offered moderate leadership by re-centering the party. Cuomo’s potential ascent to play a similar role raises eyebrows, especially considering he lacks the close ties to the traditional Democratic establishment represented by figures like Barack Obama or Nancy Pelosi, whom many party members wish to move past.
Nevertheless, critics question whether the scars from Cuomo's COVID-19 policies can heal quickly enough for him to gain traction. During the pandemic, Cuomo's administration faced backlash for its decision to send COVID-positive seniors back to nursing homes, which many argue contributed to unnecessary fatalities. Although the legal ramifications have faded, the public memory of those decisions remains sharp and holds power over perceptions of his leadership.
Cuomo's strategy appears clear; he hopes to secure the mayoral office first, which could pave the way for his larger ambitions. Incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, currently facing challenges of his own, will be his primary competitor. The local election will not just be pivotal for New York City but also resonate nationally, potentially deciding the direction of the Democratic Party and future presidential candidates.
While attention remains on Cuomo’s bid, parties within the Democratic fold are divided. Some see him as precisely what the party needs—an established political figure lacking the direct guilt of the Biden administration. Others warn against overlooking the darker chapters of his governorship. This duality means Cuomo will face scrutiny not just from external opponents but also internal party factions.
Polling could soon reflect the shifting opinions. Should Cuomo gain traction, national attention is probable, especially as the midterms approach. Comparisons to Trump may emerge as Cuomo seeks to reestablish himself as the Democratic contender against the former president, much like their dynamic during the COVID press briefings of 2020. The specter of the two facing off again is tantalizing, especially as Cuomo has already carved out significant media space for himself during his tenure.
Eyeing the future, if Cuomo does not find victory within the mayoral race, his ambitions for presidential candidacy may dim significantly. Yet if he succeeds, he may transform not only New York City’s political scene but the fate of the Democratic Party as well. With trends pointing to volatility, any result from this upcoming election could radically change the political calculus as voters decide whether to reinstate Cuomo as a prominent figure. The outcome will undoubtedly signal larger trends within the party as they grapple with their identity and direction moving forward.
The question remains: Will New York voters hold Cuomo accountable for his past actions, or will they reward him with the mayoralty, setting the stage for a possible presidential run? This election could be pivotal not only for Cuomo personally but for the national political terrain as Democrats navigate their path through turbulent waters.