Campaign Lawyer for Andrew Cuomo Critiques Union for Listing ‘Top Ten Reasons’ Against Voting for Him

Cuomo Campaign Challenges Union Divergence

Martin Connor, a lawyer for Andrew Cuomo’s campaign, has sent a cease and desist letter to the American Communications Worker Local 1180 (CWA), which is backing Adrian Adams, one of Cuomo’s rivals in the upcoming mayoral race.

In a letter acquired by Politico, CWA Local 1180 accused Cuomo’s campaign of disseminating misleading information regarding his political and personal history in a mailer sent out on May 22. This mailer included a list titled “Top 10 Reasons to Vote No to Cuomo for the Mayor of New York.”

Connor’s letter addressed only some of the criticisms outlined in the union’s mailer. It specifically rebutted claims that “Cuomo has never contributed to New York City” and allegations surrounding his settlement with the Department of Justice over sexual harassment claims, as well as accusations of concealing the nursing home death toll during the COVID crisis.

There were other points raised in the mailer that were not directly countered, such as issues regarding Cuomo’s administration, including the impact of Tier 6 on state contracts and health insurance costs for state employees, which have reportedly risen significantly. Additionally, there were mentions of taxpayer money being used to combat sexual harassment claims.

Cuomo is currently campaigning to become the mayor of New York City, having previously served as governor from 2011 until his resignation in August 2021 amid multiple sexual harassment allegations. His opponent, Adams, currently chairs the New York City Council and receives support from District Council 37, a major union representing civil servants.

An opinion survey from Emerson College indicated Cuomo leading Adams in one poll, with 35% of voters supporting him compared to Adams’ 8%. However, another poll conducted by the Working Family Party showed different results, putting Adams at 41% against Cuomo’s 34%. The Democratic primary for the mayoral election is set for June 24.

Rich Azzopardi, a spokesperson for Cuomo, expressed skepticism about Adams and her allies, claiming they are misrepresenting facts to sway public perception. “New Yorkers deserve to hear the truth and not be misled,” he stated, suggesting that the campaign would fight against misinformation aggressively.