According to the New York Times, federal prosecutors have launched a criminal investigation into New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, and are currently leading the Democratic field in the New York Mayor's race. The investigation centers on whether Cuomo misunderstood Congress about handling deaths in his administration's nursing home during the early months of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The U.S. Lawyer's Office in Washington has launched an investigation following an introduction from House Supervisory Committee Chairman James Kommer (R-KY.). Comer argued at the Congressional hearing that Cuomo made false statements about another state report that significantly compensated for coronavirus-related deaths by 50% by 50%, according to the New York Power of Attorney General.
What caused the investigation?
The investigation follows allegations that Cuomo played a role in underestimating deadly figures for nursing homes. In March 2020, his administration issued an order requiring nursing homes to accept positive symbiotic patients who have been discharged from hospitals. Cuomo argues that the policy follows federal guidance and is consistent with actions taken by other states.
Critics say the directive contributed to a fatal outbreak of vulnerable groups. Voices for seniors, an advocacy group formed in response to the crisis, welcomed the investigation. It called the probe a delayed and necessary for accountability.
How does this relate to mayoral competition?
The investigation comes months after the Trump administration retracted a corruption incident against New York Mayor Eric Adams, Cuomo's lead rival, in the June 24 mayoral primary. The administration argued that continuing the case would hinder Adams' ability to support federal immigration enforcement. Adams, who runs as an independent, was ultimately faced with accusations of bribery and wire fraud by the court.
The double decision to dismiss Adams' lawsuit and pursue Cuomo raises questions about political interference in the Justice Department under President Donald Trump. Cuomo's team described the investigation as politically motivated, calling it “law” and “election intervention.”
What did Cuomo say accordingly?
Cuomo denied any fraud. His spokesman, Rich Azopaldi, said the former governor had given true testimony to the best of his memory and offered to answer follow-up questions from lawmakers.
“From the start, this was all transparently political,” Azopaldi said.
Cuomo frequently criticizes Trump on his campaign trajectory, calling him a “bully.” His supporters argue that the investigation is part of a pattern of targeting political enemies. Federal officials have not confirmed or denied the existence of the investigation.
What is the broader meaning?
This is not the first time the Department of Justice has examined the handling of Cuomo nursing homes. During Trump's first term, the department launched another investigation into covid-era nursing home deaths in New York and other democratically-led states. Inspectors later found that department officials leaked details of the investigation to a press conference prior to the 2020 election, violating the agency's policies.
Cuomo resigned as governor in 2021 amid unrelated allegations of sexual misconduct.
Devan Markham (Morning Digital Producer),
Jonah Applegarth (production specialist),
Kaleb Gillespie (Video Editor)
I contributed to this report.
