New York City Mayor Eric Adams has publicly endorsed Andrew Cuomo in the 2026 New York gubernatorial race, a significant and surprising development in the state’s political landscape. This endorsement comes despite Cuomo’s controversial past and ongoing investigations, generating both praise and scrutiny.
Adams lauded Cuomo’s leadership experience, citing his tenure as governor as evidence of capability. He argued that New York needs seasoned leadership to navigate the challenges ahead and positioned Cuomo as a stabilizing force. For Adams, the endorsement reflects pragmatic politics amid a crowded field of contenders.
Critics of the move were swift to respond. Some seen it as a risky bet, pointing to Cuomo’s scandals and past controversies as liabilities, not assets. Others view Adams’ support as strategic: aligning himself behind a familiar political brand rather than backing untested candidates.
In response, Cuomo expressed gratitude, calling Adams’ endorsement an important boost. He committed to running a campaign focused on overarching state issues such as infrastructure, public safety, and economic revitalization, while promising transparency about his past record.
The endorsement adds a dramatic twist to New York’s gubernatorial race, bolstering Cuomo’s campaign momentum and raising the stakes for other potential contenders. Observers note that Adams’ decision may reshape alliances and voter calculations across New York politics.
