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Cuomo, Andrew (American governor)

Andrew M. Cuomo Receives Unexpected Boost from Progressive Senator Who Criticized Him in the Past

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

A surprising move by state senator Jessica Ramos, who has frequently criticized New York Governor Andrew M. Cuomo, has boosted Cuomo's bid to become mayor of New York City. Ramos, a queen from Queens, announced her endorsement of Cuomo on Friday, despite having called for his resignation in 2021 due to a sexual harassment scandal. The move has stunned her allies on the progressive left and raises questions about her motivations, given her past criticism of Cuomo. Ramos, who has expressed disappointment at feeling abandoned by her allies, is now facing criticism from women who accused Cuomo of sexual harassment.

Key Takeaways:

  • Jessica Ramos, a state senator from Queens, has endorsed Andrew M. Cuomo for New York City mayor, despite having frequently criticized him in the past.
  • Ramos has called for Cuomo's resignation in 2021 due to a sexual harassment scandal and questioned his ''mental acuity'' in April.
  • Ramos's endorsement is seen as a blow to her rival, Zohran Mamdani, a state assemblyman from Queens, and her former allies on the progressive left.
  • Many of Ramos's allies are unhappy with her decision, with the left-leaning Working Families Party voting to remove her from their slate.
  • Ramos has expressed disappointment at feeling abandoned by her allies on the left, especially those who support Mamdani.
  • Cuomo has denied the sexual harassment allegations and fought them in court, despite some of his strongest support coming from women.
  • Cuomo thanked Ramos for her support and said that he looked forward to working with her to approve a $20 minimum wage for the city.

Statistics:

  • Ramos has only $9,000 in her campaign account and has not qualified for public matching funds.
  • Cuomo's campaign has received more than 70% of union endorsements.
  • Cuomo has 44% of votes in recent polls, with Ramos at 3.5%, and Mamdani at 21%.
  • Ramos has expressed regret for not running for mayor four years ago and implied that she was not experienced enough at the time.

Sources:

  • New York Times, A18 (No Date)
  • Politico (No Date)

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