Thoughts on Andrew Cuomo
In 2010, I was excited about the prospect of New York Attorney General Andrew Cuomo running for Governor. Despite a backlash against the Democrats across the country, Cuomo was elected by a healthy margin, winning even counties that Democrats traditionally do not win. But there were cracks in the facad. A senior Amtrak manager who I met in late 2010 mentioned to me to be weary of Cuomo on issues regarding rail and transit, noting correctly that the Governor-elect's father (Mario Cuomo) gave token attention to rail and transit issues.
Since Cuomo's election in 2010, I have found myself in a position where so many of his moves have been disappointing. Initially, I was supportive of his handling of major crises (the Tappan Zee Bridge replacement project, COVID-19 in nursing homes and rehabilitation centers). But his ego and his micromanaging of New York is getting tiring. From rebranding state agency logos to the new license plate design, I could go on a rant about this. The way Cuomo handled the Tappan Zee Bridge replacement, COVID-19 and his longstanding meddling with the MTA should be forewarning that he is unfit to lead.
His record on the MTA has been atrocious. From appointing political allies to the MTA board torunning Andy Byford out of New York City Transit, Cuomo's meddling has proven more destructive than just letting things be. He claims to be the savior of New York's infrastructure yet two tourist railroads have been torn up to build Cuomo's superhighway bike/walking trail.
But that's not the worst of it.
His behavior and conduct towards women does not surprise me. It seems in the last few weeks there is a new story about an allegation coming out almost every day. To those women, I'm deeply sorry for how the Governor has treated you. No man, let alone one with three daughters, should EVER make a woman feel uncomfortable. I've lost count as to how many allegations there have been, and that's a problem in itself. I get the feeling that there are far more allegations yet to come as well. What is more embarrassing and shameful is I know Democrats (these Democrats shall remain anonmynous) who will support Cuomo the way some Republicans will support Trump: without a single condition. I know Democrats who have openly condoned his behavior.
How bad has Cuomo's scandals become? Look at the New York Times:
Need I say more?