Former Governor Andrew Cuomo emerged as a significant figure during the first debate among Democratic mayoral candidates in New York City, where he faced criticism from Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani.
The event, held as part of the 2025 primary race, brought body language experts into the conversation, who commented on the candidates’ performances during the unfolding drama.
Here’s a look at some of their insights:
Cuomo’s Blinking Behavior
Despite being a primary contender, Cuomo’s demeanor noticeably shifted as he was challenged by other candidates for over two hours during the NBC-Politico debate.
Christopher Ulrich, a body language expert based in Washington, D.C., noted that Cuomo’s blinking increased significantly when faced with questions about the COVID nursing home deaths and the sexual harassment allegations that led to his resignation.
“Initially, he appeared confident and expressive, but his demeanor changed, especially under fire,” Ulrich observed.
“When discussing issues like death rates and allegations of harassment in nursing homes, his blinking rate noticeably increased.”
These behaviors were interpreted as clear indicators of heightened psychological discomfort.
Hands in Pockets
Experts also remarked that Cuomo often had his hands in his pockets throughout the debate.
“We noticed Cuomo keeping his hands in his pockets during verbal assaults from other candidates,” they noted.
At various moments, his gaze seemed fixed on his podium as the criticisms continued.
“These constant jabs clearly took a toll on him, leading Cuomo to lower his gaze.”
“In an attempt to shield himself from the hostility directed his way, he began scribbling notes, perhaps to regain focus.”
Chasing a Viral Moment
Mamdani, a 33-year-old Socialist Congressman from Queens, utilized dramatic hand gestures to try and capture attention away from Cuomo.
According to Ulrich, Mamdani employed various tactics, including references to Cuomo’s donors and COVID reports, to create a memorable moment during the debate, often aiming his gestures towards Cuomo.
Lieberman pointed out that Mamdani, who appeals to a younger, ultra-left demographic, often used “sensational dramatic language” on stage.
“He’s unpredictable in this race, and his wide-ranging gestures reflect that,” she said, noting his determination to overshadow Cuomo.
A Politician’s Poise
Pastor Michael Blake expressed pride in how he stood up to Cuomo, despite the challenges from former Obama administration officials.
Ulrich noted that Blake aimed to command attention during his confrontational exchanges with Cuomo.
“Mr. Blake shone at critical moments, pressing Cuomo for clarity on his responses,” he shared, emphasizing how reporters frequently echoed Blake’s pointed questions.
“Blake asserted himself, ensuring his voice was heard and directing the flow of conversation. His style reflects some strategies used by Trump in the 2016 Republican debates,” Ulrich added.
