Cuomo’s Apology to Jewish New Yorkers
Former Governor Andrew Cuomo expressed regret to Jewish New Yorkers for the restrictions he imposed during the Covid-19 pandemic five years ago. These lockdown measures significantly restricted gatherings, impacting schools and religious practices.
His apology came just hours before Yom Kippur, a crucial day in the Jewish calendar dedicated to atonement.
In a video, Cuomo mentioned that his decisions were made in the interest of public health during a pandemic that resulted in approximately 80,000 deaths in New York.
“Yet, we must acknowledge that some decisions caused distress within the Jewish community because we didn’t fully consider the deep traditions and sensitivities involved,” he stated. This message was also shared with Orthodox rabbis and was initially reported by Jacob Kornblue.
“We could have approached things differently, and we are genuinely sorry for that,” Cuomo added.
“I know my choices won’t change what happened. I truly hope for your understanding,” he remarked.
The lockdown measures, aimed at curbing the virus’s spread, received backlash from residents in Brooklyn and Queens’ ultra-Orthodox neighborhoods.
City Councilman Simcha Felder, who represents the Orthodox community in southern Brooklyn, commented on Cuomo’s recent apology.
Back in October 2020, Cuomo had been more defiant regarding the need to apologize for the lockdown, saying, “No,” when asked if he felt it was necessary. He acknowledged the confusion felt by various religious communities due to the restrictions affecting their gatherings.
At that time, he expressed sympathy for all affected New Yorkers, stating, “I’m sorry to see people dying. It’s a painful situation.”
Political dynamics have shifted since then, with socialist Democratic candidate Zoran Mamdani currently leading in the polls after winning the June 24 election. Cuomo, now running as an independent under the “Fight & Deliver” line, faces competition from Republican Curtis Sliwa and others.
Meanwhile, Mayor Eric Adams announced he would not seek re-election.
