Andrew Cuomo Leads Funded 2025 NYC Mayoral Race Amid Endorsements, Criticism

Andrew Cuomo, despite resigning as New York governor in 2021 amid sexual misconduct allegations which he denies, is mounting a strong campaign for New York City mayor in 2025, leading in polls and securing key endorsements including from local Democratic Party chairs and Black churches. His campaign is heavily backed by significant financial contributions from influential business leaders and special interest groups, including a super PAC funded by billionaires and corporations such as DoorDash. Cuomo faces criticism from current Mayor Eric Adams and other leading candidates who argue that his past policies as governor contributed to many of the city's ongoing problems, accusing him of inconsistency and political opportunism. The Citizens Union, a historic watchdog group that once called for Cuomo's removal as governor, has notably endorsed him along with other candidates without ranking them, reflecting the unusual nature of the race. Cuomo's campaign strategy includes projecting a sense of inevitability and focusing on his record managing state government, while largely avoiding addressing the sexual misconduct accusations and the controversial handling of the state's COVID-19 nursing home deaths. Despite the controversies, voter indifference to his past and Cuomo's ability to rally support from diverse constituencies highlight the complex dynamics shaping the mayoral contest.