Andrew Cuomo Announces Bid for NYC Mayor in Political Comeback Attempt

Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo officially announced his candidacy for New York City mayor on Saturday, setting the stage for a highly competitive Democratic primary.

Cuomo’s bid marks a major political comeback attempt after resigning as governor in 2021 amid a sexual harassment scandal. Despite the controversy surrounding his tenure, early polling suggests he is a strong contender to replace Mayor Eric Adams.

A Crowded and Controversial Race

The Democratic primary, set for June, is already shaping up to be intense:

• Mayor Eric Adams is seeking re-election despite facing a federal bribery and fraud indictment. However, his case may not move forward after the Department of Justice (DOJ) ordered the charges withdrawn.
• City Comptroller Brad Lander, Queens State Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani, former City Comptroller Scott Stringer, and Queens State Sen. Jessica Ramos have all entered the race.
• Adams has resisted calls to resign, which grew louder after he expressed support for President Trump’s immigration crackdown.

Cuomo’s Comeback Attempt

Cuomo, who served as governor from 2011 to 2021, resigned after an independent investigation concluded that he sexually harassed multiple women. He has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing. A DOJ report also found that his administration fostered a hostile work environment and violated federal retaliation rules.

Despite his controversial exit from office, Cuomo has remained politically active and hinted at a mayoral run even before Adams' indictment.

Polls Show Cuomo in the Lead

Cuomo is emerging as a frontrunner in the primary, according to recent polling:

• A February Emerson College Poll showed him leading with 33% support among Democratic voters, while Adams trailed at 10%.
• Another survey by the Honan Strategy Group found Cuomo ahead with 35% of the vote, followed by City Comptroller Brad Lander.

The Democratic primary will take place in June, with the general election set for November. With Cuomo’s entry into the race, the battle for City Hall is expected to be one of the most closely watched political contests of the year, in US.