1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East, New York City’s largest private sector union, has endorsed former Governor Andrew Cuomo in the 2025 mayoral race. The endorsement, announced Friday, April 25th, strengthens Cuomo’s growing list of labor support as he campaigns for a political comeback.
The union, representing 200,000 healthcare workers across the five boroughs, highlighted Cuomo’s record on issues critical to working families. They pointed to his leadership in securing a $15 minimum wage, expanding Paid Family Leave, achieving marriage equality, and protecting immigrant rights. Union leaders also cited Cuomo’s strong advocacy for healthcare workers at a time when federal threats to healthcare access and Medicaid funding continue.
George Gresham, President of 1199SEIU, expressed, “New York is at a crossroads, and we need leaders who will stand up for working people, fight for good union jobs, and ensure every New Yorker — no matter their zip code — has access to quality healthcare, affordable housing, and a living wage. At a time when our city is facing enormous challenges, we need leaders with the experience and vision to deliver real results — our members recognize that Governor Cuomo is the clear choice to lead New York forward.”
Cuomo’s longstanding relationship with 1199SEIU dates back to earlier stages of his political career. In 2011, as governor, he helped bail out the union’s insurance fund with a $50 million allocation. Reflecting on their history, Cuomo stated during a 2018 rally, “When I was running for attorney general, when I was running for governor, 1199 had my back and I want you to know I would not be attorney general and I would not have been governor if it wasn’t for 1199.”
Following the endorsement, Cuomo expressed his appreciation on social media, writing, “These working men and women are on the frontlines of healthcare every day and are critical to the health and safety of New Yorkers. As mayor, I will continue to stand with them and ensure their voices are heard.”
The endorsement comes as 1199SEIU undergoes its first contested leadership election since 1989. Despite recent internal challenges, including scrutiny over union spending, 1199SEIU remains a significant political force.
