Andrew Cuomo, the former governor of New York, has expressed a striking lack of admiration for any current members of his own Democratic Party.
In a conversation with The New York Times, Cuomo, who has been a Democrat throughout his political career, revealed his inability to identify a single living Democrat he respects. This revelation comes as Cuomo, having lost the Democratic primary to New York State Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani by a significant margin, now pursues an independent candidacy.
Recent polls indicate that Cuomo trails Mamdani, a self-proclaimed socialist, by over 20 points.
According to the Daily Caller, Cuomo's dissatisfaction with the Democratic Party is palpable. "Admire? None comes to mind," he stated when asked to name three elected officials he holds in high regard or with whom he shares ideological similarities.
Cuomo further criticized his party, asserting, "The Democratic Party is not meeting the moment. I think the Democratic Party has created the moment." Despite his critical stance, Cuomo acknowledged that Illinois Governor JB Pritzker is "doing a good job as a manager of his state," and that California Governor Gavin Newsom is "doing the best he can."
Mamdani, Cuomo's opponent, has garnered support from influential liberal figures, including Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Senators Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders. Additionally, Mamdani recently received an endorsement from New York Governor Kathy Hochul.
Cuomo, however, downplayed the impact of such endorsements, remarking, "Everybody makes a political decision on a political endorsement and what works for their politics, and thats obviously her decision. I dont think endorsements mean that much in campaigns anymore in general."
Cuomo has been vocal in his criticism of Mamdani's "anti-business, anti-corporate" policies. In an August interview with Fox News, Cuomo declared, "If theres one city where you cant have a socialist mayor, its New York City." The two candidates have also sparred over their positions on Israel, with Cuomo staunchly supporting the Jewish state, while Mamdani, who is Muslim, has refrained from condemning the phrase "globalize the intifada," which is widely interpreted as inciting violence against Jews.
Cuomo's tenure as governor of New York, from 2011 until his resignation in August 2021, was marred by controversy. He stepped down amid multiple allegations of sexual harassment, which he has denied. His administration also faced criticism for significantly underreporting nursing home deaths after mandating that these facilities admit COVID-19 patients.
As the November 4 general election approaches, none of the candidates have indicated any intention to withdraw from the race. A New York Times/Siena College poll reveals that 46% of likely New York City voters support Mamdani, while 24% back Cuomo.
Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa garners 15% support, and incumbent Mayor Eric Adams trails with just 9%.
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