Cuomo's Mayoral Bid Shakes Up NYC Race, Drawing Major Power Brokers And Critics Alike

Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo's weekend announcement that he will run for New York City mayor has reshaped an already crowded Democratic primary field. As rivals scramble to counter his candidacy, some of the city's wealthiest and most influential figures are lining up behind him.

Billionaire investor and Home Depot co-founder Ken Langone, financier Anthony Scaramucci, and Avenue Capital Group CEO Marc Lasry have already pledged their support, per Bloomberg.

"I've known Andrew a long time," said Lasry, reported the outlet. "I think he did a very good job as governor, and I think he'll do a great job as mayor."

In his formal campaign launch on Saturday, Cuomo wasted no time in addressing the city’s biggest concerns. "The city just feels threatening, out of control and in crisis. I know what needs to be done, and I know how to do it."

Work Closely With Trump

Former Goldman Sachs CEO Lloyd Blankfein said the next mayor of NYC should have a working relationship with President Trump and be prepared to push for economic development.

"The city should elect people who will advance economic development and efficiency and not ultra progressives that seem to block progress at every turn," said Blankfein, who added that Cuomo was "smart, capable and pragmatic, a competent executive.”

Cuomo’s entrance into the race poses a stiff challenge to incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, who is embroiled in multiple corruption investigations and faces mounting calls to step down.

"I appreciate Mayor Adams, but he has too many problems that the city doesn't need to take on for another term," said Blankfein.

Adam’s legal troubles have fueled speculation over his political viability, particularly after Trump directed Manhattan prosecutors to drop bribery charges against him.

Read More: Chaos at Justice Department as Trump-Backed Officials Push To Drop Corruption Case Against NYC Mayor Adams

Cuomo's Baggage And NY Gov Hochul

While praised for championing cannabis legalization in 2021, Cuomo oversaw controversial bail-reform laws, MTA budget cuts and reductions in rental assistance that contributed to the NYC's homelessness crisis.

Meanwhile, Gov. Kathy Hochul—formerly Cuomo's lieutenant governor, who replaced him in 2021 after he resigned after multiple sexual harassment allegations—said she'll work with whomever is elected mayor.

Hochul says she'll rely on “the smart voters of this great city” to “select someone that they believe will accomplish those goals and in that case, that will be a partner of mine.”

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