Andrew Cuomo’s latest campaign ad for the New York City mayoral race is drawing mixed reactions from critics. The former governor is seen in the ad helping a fellow New Yorker by jump-starting a car on a city street.
“New Yorkers, start the engine… together, we can fix this city!” Cuomo declared in an Instagram post that features the campaign video. He emphasized partnership and community support, saying, “We can be there for each other. We will help. We will. And we will be together.”
The video opens with Cuomo checking the engine, signaling the driver to start it. He then shows a black jumper cable connected to the negative terminal and holds a red cable in his hand.
The ad includes some criticism, notably from former Obama staff members who described it as lacking both message and charisma.
In the video, Cuomo connects the red cable to the free terminal before moving to the driver’s seat of another vehicle. After starting the car, he looks at the rearview mirror, shifts the shot to the driver, and turns the key. The car starts and, with a smile, the driver high-fives Cuomo, though their faces remain obscured.
While the ad attempts to project a positive image, some critics quickly pointed out errors, like the order in which the cables were connected. One viewer humorously noted, “Hello Cuomo’s media team! Please exclude this from your resume.”
Cuomo’s team responded to the backlash, stating it was an “illogical” critique and emphasizing Cuomo’s background as a trained mechanic who used to tow trucks. They suggested the critics should consider more constructive engagement.
Interestingly, not all feedback was negative. Some viewers supported the video, praising Cuomo’s willingness to get involved in hands-on work and suggesting it reflects leadership and a community spirit.
Cuomo, who has been attempting a political comeback after resigning amid scandals in 2021, recently faced defeat in the Democratic primaries against him, which has stirred the political landscape. He expressed his determination to stay in the race for the general election in November, highlighting that a significant portion of New Yorkers did not vote in the primary.
During a recent announcement, he criticized his opponent, Zoran Mamdani, for lacking tangible solutions despite his appealing slogans. While acknowledging Mamdani’s primary victory, Cuomo insists he’s still in the running.
