NYC mayor: Cuomo should ‘answer’ COVID nursing home decisions

Former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo is facing scrutiny over his handling of nursing homes and casualties during the coronavirus pandemic, with New York City Mayor Eric Adams calling for answers. Adams emphasized the importance of Cuomo addressing these issues on the campaign trail, stating that families and advocates are eager to hear his explanations.

A report released by the New York state comptroller in March 2022 revealed that Cuomo’s Health Department had not been transparent in reporting COVID-19 deaths in nursing homes. The report indicated that the department had understated the number of deaths in nursing homes by as much as 50% during certain periods of the pandemic.

Cuomo faced backlash from Republican lawmakers last year for a directive issued in March 2020 that initially prevented nursing homes from rejecting COVID-positive patients. This directive resulted in over 9,000 recovering coronavirus patients being transferred from hospitals to nursing homes. While the directive was later rescinded amid concerns that it had contributed to outbreaks, a state report commissioned by Gov. Kathy Hochul concluded that the policies were based on the best available science at the time.

Representatives for Cuomo have denied any mishandling of nursing homes during the pandemic, despite mounting criticism. Cuomo ultimately resigned from office in August 2021 following allegations of sexual harassment, which he denies.

Over the weekend, Cuomo announced his bid for New York City mayor, citing the city’s current state of crisis. When asked about the sexual harassment allegations against Cuomo, Mayor Adams stressed the importance of Cuomo addressing these issues on the campaign trail.

It is clear that Cuomo’s handling of the pandemic, particularly in nursing homes, remains a contentious issue that he will need to address as he embarks on his mayoral campaign. The allegations of underreporting COVID-related deaths in nursing homes have raised serious concerns among families and advocates, highlighting the need for transparency and accountability.

In conclusion, the controversies surrounding Cuomo’s tenure as governor continue to overshadow his political ambitions. As he seeks to become mayor of New York City, Cuomo will need to confront these issues head-on and provide satisfactory answers to the public. Only time will tell how these controversies will impact his mayoral campaign.

Sources:
– Fox News
– Associated Press
– New York State Comptroller
– Governor Kathy Hochul’s office

By Greg Norman, Reporter at Fox News Digital