Cuomo Faces Criticism Over Covid Nursing Home Scandal

Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo is under scrutiny following a mayoral debate in New York City, where he dismissed claims that he misled Congress regarding a report on nursing home deaths during the Covid-19 pandemic. In his remarks, he acknowledged that he had seen the report but seemed to suggest he didn’t initially remember reviewing it. Proposed changes to the report’s language were also mentioned.

Cuomo stated, “I didn’t remember seeing the report back then. I saw the report” and admitted, “After reading the report, I’m sure I’ve made a language change.” Despite these acknowledgments, he insisted that the report was ultimately “accurate” and noted that the ongoing discourse around it has been “politicized from day one.”

Once a prominent figure, Cuomo, who resigned in 2021 amid sexual harassment allegations, is now vying for the mayor’s office in New York City. He continues to defend himself against accusations of manipulating Covid-related information, particularly concerning the number of nursing home fatalities.

During the same debate, critics from the Democratic party confronted Cuomo over allegations that he lied to Congress, a matter currently being investigated by the Trump administration’s Justice Department. This investigation began in May to determine whether Cuomo misrepresented details surrounding his decision-making as governor during the pandemic.

As questions arose regarding his honesty about the drafting of the New York Department of Health report, Cuomo criticized the investigation, labeling it a reflection of partisan politics. He asserted, “the report didn’t make up for death,” emphasizing that New York followed federal guidance throughout the crisis.

Despite admitting to previously misstating information regarding his engagement with the report, Cuomo maintained that the death count reported was accurate. He mentioned, “With so much misinformation being spread, let’s make the record clear. New York has always followed federal guidance on nursing homes.”

Cuomo pointed out that federal guidance had adapted over time as more was learned about the pandemic. He also noted that New York ranks 38th among states in nursing home mortality rates, claiming only 12 states have lower rates.

Expect intense scrutiny from both moderators and rivals regarding the report as Cuomo prepares for the next mayoral debate.