Union Support for Cuomo: A Complex Political Dance

There's a lot of talk about Andrew Cuomo these days. He's running for mayor of New York City and has just secured a big endorsement. The 1199SEIU, the city's largest health care workers' union, has thrown its support behind him. This might seem surprising to some. After all, the union's leader, George Gresham, called for Cuomo's resignation as governor just a couple of years ago. Why the change of heart? The union has its reasons. They appreciate Cuomo's past efforts as governor. He helped raise the state's minimum wage to 15 dollars and expanded paid family leave. These are big deals for the union's 200, 000 members, who work as nurses, therapists, and other health care professionals. They believe Cuomo has the experience and vision to lead New York City forward. Gresham, who has been a long-time ally of Cuomo, has faced his own scrutiny. Some union members have accused him of financial mismanagement. Despite this, he stands by his decision to endorse Cuomo. He believes Cuomo is the best choice for the city. Cuomo, for his part, is grateful for the union's support. He acknowledges the vital role that 1199SEIU members play in the city's health care system. He sees them as the backbone of health care in New York, both in everyday life and during crises. This isn't the first time the 1199SEIU has made waves in city politics. In the 2021 mayoral election, they endorsed progressive lawyer Maya Wiley. That election was won by Eric Adams, who is now seeking reelection as an independent. Adams has faced his own political challenges, including fallout from a corruption indictment that was later dismissed. Cuomo isn't just banking on the 1199SEIU's support. He's also been endorsed by other powerful unions in New York, like 32BJ and the Hotel Trades and Gaming Council. These unions also called for Cuomo's resignation as governor in 2021. Cuomo has denied allegations of sexual harassment, though he did apologize for making women feel uncomfortable. Not all unions are on board with Cuomo, though. DC 37, the city's largest municipal workers' union, has endorsed Council Speaker Adrienne Adams for mayor. They decided against backing Cuomo because of cuts he made as governor to benefits for public sector retirees in New York. This shows that union support for Cuomo is not unanimous. It's a complex political dance, with unions weighing their past grievances against Cuomo's potential as a mayoral candidate.