On Monday, April 14th, former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo received crucial endorsements in his bid for mayor of New York City. Two of the city’s most powerful labor unions, 32BJ SEIU and the Hotel and Gaming Trades Council (HTC) announced their support for his candidacy. Representing over 120,000 workers in key sectors such as building services, hospitality, and healthcare, their backing significantly boosts Cuomo’s campaign in New York’s highly unionized environment.
Both unions had previously supported Mayor Eric Adams in the 2021 race. However, with Adams stepping aside from the Democratic primary to run as an independent, they have shifted their support to Cuomo. Manny Pastreich, president of 32BJ SEIU, emphasized Cuomo’s commitment to workers, saying, “Andrew Cuomo is equipped to stand up to attacks on our city that threaten our finances, our jobs, our public transportation, our healthcare, our social security and our rights,” Rich Maroko, president of HTC, also praised Cuomo’s leadership, adding, “When we need him in a fight, he will be in the foxhole with us until the end.”
His campaign has also garnered the support of other key unions, including the District Council of Carpenters and several prominent political figures. His endorsers include U.S. Representatives Gregory Meeks and Ritchie Torres, and Assemblywoman Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn.
These endorsements bolster Cuomo’s position as a frontrunner in the Democratic primary for mayor. Despite his past resignation following multiple sexual harassment allegations, Cuomo continues to focus on his vision for the city’s future. He aims to tackle issues such as housing affordability, healthcare costs, and the stability of union jobs while positioning himself as a champion for working families.
With strong support from labor groups, over $1.5 million in campaign funding, and leading in the polls, Cuomo appears well-positioned to challenge the other candidates in the upcoming mayoral race. As the contest heats up, Cuomo’s past scandals remain a point of contention, but his support base is rallying around his record of delivering for working people and his plans to address New York City’s pressing issues.
