Ocasio-Cortez Warns Against Cuomo’s Mayoral Bid

Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez from New York has expressed concerns that if former Governor Andrew Cuomo wins the upcoming mayoral election, he might use it as a launchpad for future presidential ambitions.

“This isn’t just about New York City; it’s about the entire country,” the progressive lawmaker told a group of fellow socialists and mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani at an event in Manhattan.

According to Ocasio-Cortez, Cuomo has indicated he would pursue a national political career if he wins the mayoral race.

During her speech, Ocasio-Cortez, 35, alongside Senator Bernie Sanders, raised issues about Cuomo’s age, suggesting that the 67-year-old could block younger leadership from emerging.

“In a society striving to overcome ageism in leadership, sending Andrew Cuomo back to the Gracie Mansion would be counterproductive,” she remarked.

Cuomo was the governor of New York from 2011 until 2021, yet he has yet to occupy the mayoral seat in New York City.

While Cuomo has not declared any firm plans for a presidential run in 2028, he has acknowledged that winning the mayoral race would elevate his national profile.

Ocasio-Cortez believes that the upcoming Democratic primary on June 24 presents a significant chance to steer the country further left.

“If we can transform the largest cities in the United States, we can change the national narrative,” she stated.

Mamdani, 33, has made strides in recent polls and supports a progressive agenda, which includes proposals for a city-run grocery store, a 2% tax increase on billionaires, a 4.5% hike in corporate taxes, free childcare, complimentary bus rides, and refocusing policing towards social work and mental health services.

While some local Democrats are anxious about the prospect of Mamdani winning, Cuomo is generally viewed as a frontrunner in the race.

Ocasio-Cortez’s relationship with Cuomo is notable; many who were once in his camp have since called for his resignation following his denials of sexual harassment allegations.

Reflecting on this, she expressed disbelief at the political landscape, saying, “As a survivor of sexual assault, I can’t support him.”

Ocasio-Cortez further added, “The message sent by political establishments is troubling. No matter your beliefs or struggles, they keep choosing the same old figures from previous generations.”

Last year, established lawmakers were removed from their positions, highlighting the tug-of-war within the Democratic Party, particularly following the passing of Representative Jerry Connolly.

The Cuomo campaign has yet to respond to requests for comments on this issue.