Trump’s ‘MAGA line’ to blame for COVID controversy, Cuomo insists

Nine Democratic candidates faced off in the first of two debates ahead of the June 24 mayoral primary in New York City. The focus of the debate quickly turned to former Gov. Andrew Cuomo and his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cuomo faced tough questions about the Justice Department’s investigation into his alleged false congressional testimony regarding decisions made during the pandemic. He dismissed the investigation as a political tactic by the Trump administration, calling it a game of “political football.”

The other candidates on stage included City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, city Comptroller Brad Lander, former city Comptroller Scott Stringer, former state Assemblyman Michael Blake, state Sen. Zellnor Myrie, state Sen. Jessica Ramos, and former hedge fund executive Whitney Tilson. The winner of the Democratic primary will be the favorite to win November’s general election.

Cuomo, with his name recognition and experience as governor, is the frontrunner in the Democratic primary. Incumbent Mayor Eric Adams is running for re-election as an independent. Cuomo highlighted his experience in challenging Trump’s agenda during his first term as president, positioning himself as the candidate best equipped to stand up to the former president.

During the debate, Cuomo maintained that he told Congress the truth about the number of nursing home deaths in New York during the pandemic, despite the DOJ investigation. However, he refused to answer questions about his involvement in the contested COVID-19 report.

House Republicans previously recommended criminal charges against Cuomo for allegedly lying to Congress about nursing home deaths. The controversy has put a spotlight on Cuomo’s leadership during the pandemic and has become a focal point in the mayoral race.

The Democratic primary for mayor of New York City is a closely watched race, with early voting set to begin on June 14. The outcome of the primary will shape the future of the city, as candidates vie to lead the city’s recovery from the pandemic and address pressing issues facing New Yorkers.

In conclusion, the debate highlighted the challenges facing the candidates as they seek to win over voters and lead New York City through a critical period in its history. The race is heating up, and all eyes are on the candidates as they make their case to the voters.