Former Governor Andrew Cuomo may soon see a wave of support from New York City's Jewish communities amid Mayor Eric Adams' recent legal challenges.
In the wake of corruption charges against Mayor Adams, Andrew Cuomo emerges as the preferred mayoral candidate among many mainstream and conservative Jewish voters, the New York Post reported.
Many in the Jewish communities appreciate Cuomo’s longstanding involvement and advocacy on their key issues, including his opposition to the BDS movement and support for Israel. This shift comes at a crucial time, given the precarious position of the current mayor.
Andrew Cuomo’s deep ties with the Jewish community are notable. He has been recognized for his efforts to combat antisemitism and has generally enjoyed solid support within these groups. His potential candidacy is gaining traction particularly because of his moderate political stance and proven leadership.
His management skills and ability to govern have not gone unnoticed. "I would support Andrew Cuomo. We know he can manage and govern," said Michael Nussbaum, former president of the Queens Jewish Council.
A Jewish organizer highlighted the growing anticipation: Cuomo will immediately be the top candidate in the Jewish community. This sentiment is widely supported among Jewish leaders who have expressed concern over the left-leaning positions of other Democratic candidates.
Rabbi Joseph Potasnik appreciates the current mayor's commitment but recognizes Cuomo's enduring advocacy: “We are grateful for his steadfast support to the Jewish community. His loyalty did not begin when he became mayor.”
Despite his advantages, previous controversies complicate Cuomo’s political comeback, including his resignation amid sexual harassment allegations and criticism over his handling of COVID-19 policies in nursing homes. These issues linger in the minds of voters and could affect his campaign.
Support for Cuomo in these uncertain times reflects a broader concern about the direction of city leadership, particularly with Mayor Adams' future in doubt. A Jewish leader starkly noted: “Adams is toast,” reflecting a widespread feeling that Adams might not endure politically until the next election.
In discussing Cuomo's perceived strengths, a source close to the Jewish community emphasized his credibility and effectiveness in addressing their key concerns:
Cuomo is a moderate with a deep history with the Jewish community and a long record of fighting for issues we care about — combating antisemitism and strong support of Israel.
Current Mayor Eric Adams still has his defenders who emphasize fairness and due process, particularly evident in statements by Rabbi Mendy Miroznik. “He deserves due process under the law. You’re innocent until proven guilty,” Miroznik said, asserting continued support for Adams amidst these challenges.
Cuomo’s spokesperson, Richard Azzopardi, also weighed in, suggesting that while Cuomo is focused on public service, speculation about his candidacy might be premature: “Governor Cuomo has spent a lifetime in public service fighting and delivering for the people of New York and will do whatever he can to help — that said, the speculation is premature as Governor Cuomo believes Mayor Adams is entitled to due process.”
As Cuomo contemplates a mayoral run, the unfolding legal situation with Mayor Adams will likely play a significant role in the former governor's decision-making process and strategy. Amidst these complex, overlapping issues, a potential mayoral bid by Cuomo could hinge on the New York City Jewish community's support, blending longstanding loyalties with a strategic response to current political uncertainties. Though Adams once enjoyed similar backing, his current predicaments could shift the landscape, putting Cuomo in a favorable position to potentially lead once again.
