Could Andrew Cuomo mount a political comeback? Former Kamala Harris communications director Jamal Simmons suggests the ex-governor, despite past controversies like sexual harassment allegations and COVID-19 mismanagement, could be a strong 2028 Democratic presidential candidate if he first wins the New York City mayoral race. Endorsements from figures like Hakeem Jeffries signal potential Democratic support, but Cuomo faces skepticism and must convince voters he’s overcome past actions to rally the party and challenge figures like Donald Trump.

Jamal Simmons, former communications director for Kamala Harris, recently suggested that Andrew Cuomo could be a strong Democratic presidential candidate in 2028. This proposal comes despite the controversies surrounding Cuomo, including allegations of sexual harassment and mismanagement during the COVID-19 crisis. Simmons believes that if Cuomo successfully transitions to the mayor of New York City, he could position himself as a formidable opponent to Donald Trump, rallying Democrats around his leadership.

The Case for Andrew Cuomo’s Political Comeback ###

Cuomo’s potential run for New York City mayor has garnered significant attention and support from key figures within the Democratic Party. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries stated that “a lot of people” would be “very interested” in seeing Cuomo enter the mayoral race. This sentiment reflects a broader willingness within the party to overlook past controversies in favor of a strong, experienced leader who can address the city’s current challenges.

Ritchie Torres, a prominent New York Congressman, has also endorsed Cuomo, referring to him as “Mr. Tough Guy.” Torres believes that America loves a comeback story, and he sees Cuomo’s potential mayoral candidacy as a chance for the former governor to reclaim his political stature. This endorsement represents a significant blow to current Mayor Eric Adams, who has faced his own set of challenges and criticisms.

Controversies and Challenges Facing Andrew Cuomo ###

Cuomo’s political career has been marred by significant controversies that could impact his chances of a successful comeback. In 2021, he resigned as governor of New York amid allegations of sexual harassment against multiple women, as detailed in a five-month investigation by the state attorney general’s office. Additionally, his administration faced backlash for its handling of COVID-19 deaths, particularly in nursing homes, where an executive order forced facilities to accept COVID-positive patients.

These issues have led some within his own circle to doubt his viability as a presidential candidate. One former aide stated that there is “absolutely no good reason” for Cuomo to run for president, citing his damaged reputation and the public’s unwillingness to forgive his past actions. This internal dissent highlights the challenges Cuomo would face in convincing voters to look past his controversies.

Strategic Positioning: From Mayor to President ###

Simmons’ suggestion that Cuomo could be a presidential contender in 2028 hinges on his potential success as mayor of New York City. If elected, Cuomo would have a platform to address pressing urban issues and demonstrate effective leadership, positioning him as a strong candidate for higher office. Simmons envisions Cuomo becoming Trump’s “chief antagonist” by 2026, rallying Democrats around a unifying figure.

This strategy is not without precedent. Other politicians have used local offices as springboards to national prominence. However, the path from mayor to president is fraught with challenges, and it remains to be seen whether Cuomo can overcome his past controversies and build the necessary support to make this transition.

Democratic Support and Skepticism ###

While some Democrats, like Jeffries and Torres, support Cuomo’s potential mayoral run, others remain skeptical of his broader political ambitions. Basil Smikle, former executive director of the New York Democratic Party, acknowledged that Cuomo makes people feel like he’s fighting for them, which could be appealing to voters. However, he also emphasized that candidates must do more than just sell good governance; they need to engage in the political fight.

This mixed reaction within the party underscores the complexities of Cuomo’s political situation. Democrats are divided between those who value his experience and perceived toughness and those who are wary of his past actions and the potential backlash they could generate.

Public Perception and Voter Sentiment ###

Public perception of Andrew Cuomo remains a significant factor in his political future. A strategist quoted by Simmons suggested that Democrats are no longer looking for “purity” in their candidates, indicating a shift in voter priorities. This sentiment could benefit Cuomo, as it suggests that voters are willing to overlook past controversies in favor of a candidate who can deliver results.

However, the extent to which this shift in voter sentiment translates into support for Cuomo remains uncertain. His past actions have left a lasting impact on his reputation, and it will be challenging for him to convince a broad swath of voters that he deserves another chance at high office.

The Road Ahead: Navigating Political Challenges ###

As Andrew Cuomo contemplates a run for mayor of New York City, he faces a complex political landscape. His past controversies could hinder his ability to secure the support needed to win the mayoral race, let alone a future presidential bid. However, endorsements from key figures like Jeffries and Torres provide him with a foundation to build upon.

Cuomo’s success will depend on his ability to address the city’s pressing issues effectively and to demonstrate a commitment to transparency and accountability. If he can navigate these challenges and regain the trust of voters, he may position himself as a viable candidate for higher office in the future.

Implications and Conclusion ###

Andrew Cuomo’s potential political comeback is a testament to the resilience and complexity of American politics. His journey from disgraced governor to potential presidential candidate reflects the shifting priorities of voters and the willingness of some within the Democratic Party to embrace controversial figures if they believe they can deliver results.

However, the road ahead is fraught with challenges. Cuomo must overcome his past controversies and convince voters that he has changed. His success as mayor of New York City, should he choose to run, will be a critical test of his ability to do so. If he can navigate these challenges, he may indeed emerge as a strong contender for the presidency in 2028. But until then, the question of whether Andrew Cuomo can truly make a comeback remains open.

More Reading and Sources…

Additional Sources

• Former Kamala Comms Director Thinks Andrew Cuomo Would Be a Good Presidential Candidate in 2028
• Hakeem Jeffries Says ‘A Lot Of People’ Would Be ‘Very Interested’ In Andrew Cuomo Running For NYC Mayor
• Andrew Cuomo Is Said to Be Nearing a Run for Mayor (New York Times)
• Ritchie Torres endorses ‘Mr. Tough Guy’ Andrew Cuomo for NYC mayor in latest blow to Eric Adams: ‘America loves a comeback’ (Carl Campanile/New York Post)