Andrew Cuomo’s mayoral campaign has been met with skepticism and criticism, particularly due to his track record as New York governor. Despite his promises to deliver for the city, many are questioning his ability to follow through on his pledges, considering his past failures and shortcomings.
One of the main points of contention is Cuomo’s sudden proposal for free bus and subway fares for lower-income New Yorkers. This initiative comes after his mismanagement of the MTA, which led to the infamous 2017 summer of hell. Not only did Cuomo divert funds from the agency for unrelated projects, such as bailing out upstate ski resorts and unnecessary decorative lighting, but he also pushed through congestion-pricing tolls without addressing the root causes of the city’s transportation issues.
Furthermore, Cuomo’s tenure as governor saw a rise in crime due to controversial criminal-justice reforms like Raise the Age and no-bail policies, which he continues to defend. He even supported the “defund the police” movement and appointed parole board members who have released cop-killers back into society. Despite some positive actions, such as standing up for charter schools and opposing teacher-union demands, Cuomo has now switched sides and embraced far-left policies.
Cuomo’s decision to enter the Democratic mayoral primary, despite losing, has only served to elevate progressive candidate Zohran Mamdani. By splitting the anti-Mamdani vote and refusing to step aside, Cuomo is seen as prioritizing his own ego over the needs of the city. His history of self-serving actions and lack of commitment to his promises make it difficult for voters to take his campaign seriously.
Ultimately, Cuomo’s long-standing reputation for putting himself above all else casts doubt on his ability to lead New York City effectively. His campaign rhetoric may sound promising, but his past actions speak louder than words. Voters will have to carefully consider whether Cuomo is truly the best choice to steer the city in the right direction.
