The Resignation and Its Aftermath

Andrew Cuomo, the former Governor of New York, resigned in 2021 following a damning report by the state attorney general that concluded he had sexually harassed 11 women, including Lindsey Boylan, a former aide who was the first to come forward with accusations. At the time, Cuomo faced widespread condemnation from top Democrats, including every New York Democrat in Congress, the state’s legislative leaders, and then-President Joe Biden, all of whom called for his resignation. This collective outrage marked a significant moment in the #MeToo movement, as it showed a united front against alleged sexual misconduct in high places. However, two years later, the political landscape has shifted dramatically, and Cuomo is now a serious contender in the race for mayor of New York City. His resurgence has left many of his former critics silence, raising questions about the endurance of the #MeToo movement and the political calculus of the Democratic Party.

Cuomo’s Comeback and Democratic Silence

Cuomo’s candidacy for mayor has been met with a mix of criticism and indifference from the very Democrats who once demanded his resignation. While some, like New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, have acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations, they have also emphasized the need to move forward and respect the will of voters. Hochul, who once called Cuomo’s alleged behavior “repulsive and unlawful,” now says she would work with him if he were elected. Similarly, U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, a prominent advocate for women’s rights, has declined to take a firm stance on Cuomo’s candidacy, instead framing it as a decision for New York City voters. This silence has been interpreted by many as a betrayal, particularly by accusers like Lindsey Boylan, who feel that Democratic leaders are prioritizing political expediency over accountability.

Lindsey Boylan’s Perspective and Sense of Betrayal

Lindsey Boylan, who served in the Cuomo administration for three years, has been vocal about her disappointment with the lack of support from Democratic leaders. She believes that the silence of these leaders is not just a reflection of political pragmatism but a broader failure to protect women and uphold their rights. Boylan, who accused Cuomo of an unwanted kiss and inappropriate comments, has emphasized that the #MeToo movement is not just about outrage but about creating systemic change. She argues that the current political climate, where leaders seem more interested in maintaining their power than in speaking out against misconduct, represents a step backward for women’s rights. Boylan has vowed to actively oppose Cuomo’s mayoral campaign, stating that his path to victory is built on discrediting and harming the women he allegedly abused.

Cuomo’s Strategy and the Impact of Trump’s Influence

Cuomo’s strategy for rehabilitation has included aggressively discrediting his accusers and emphasizing his record of accomplishments as governor. His campaign has pointed to the fact that multiple district attorneys have declined to pursue criminal charges against him, citing insufficient evidence. Cuomo’s spokesperson, Rich Azzopardi, has dismissed the allegations as politically motivated and accused Boylan of making false accusations during her failed run for political office in 2020. This approach has resonated with some voters, particularly in a city grappling with crisis and disorder. Political analysts argue that Cuomo’s experience and reputation as a strong leader make him an attractive candidate for many New Yorkers who are looking for stability and solutions to the city’s problems.

The normalization of misconduct in politics, exemplified by former President Donald Trump’s own history of sexual misconduct allegations, has also played a role in Cuomo’s comeback. Trump’s success in weathering multiple scandals has reshaped public expectations about what is acceptable behavior for elected officials. According to Leigh Gilmore, a professor emeritus at Ohio State University, the political landscape has shifted in a way that no longer treats such allegations as disqualifying. This cultural shift has emboldened Cuomo and others like him to seek office despite serious accusations.

The State of the Mayoral Race and Its Challenges

Cuomo’s candidacy has emerged as a significant factor in the mayoral race, with many experts considering him a frontrunner. This is partly due to the weak field of candidates and the ongoing challenges facing the current mayor, Eric Adams, who is dealing with federal corruption charges and criticism over his handling of immigration policies. Cuomo’s campaign has capitalized on the sense of disorder in the city, positioning him as a strong, experienced leader capable of addressing the city’s crises. Despite the allegations against him, Cuomo has managed to secure some endorsements, including from City Council Member Kamillah Hanks, who has praised his leadership qualities.

However, not everyone is convinced that Cuomo’s past should be overlooked. Lindsey Boylan and other accusers continue to speak out, arguing that electing Cuomo would send a dangerous message about accountability for those in power. They also point to the broader implications of Cuomo’s candidacy for the #MeToo movement, which they fear is being undermined by the willingness of politicians and voters to move on from serious allegations of misconduct.

The Broader Implications for #MeToo and Politics

The resurgence of Andrew Cuomo’s political career raises important questions about the long-term impact of the #MeToo movement on American politics. While the movement succeeded in bringing attention to systemic sexual harassment and misconduct, its ability to effect lasting change in the political arena remains uncertain. The willingness of voters and political leaders to give Cuomo another chance despite credible allegations of misconduct suggests that the movement’s influence may be waning. This is particularly concerning for advocates like Lindsey Boylan, who believe that the failure to hold powerful men accountable for their actions will only embolden them to continue abusing their power.

The 2025 mayoral race in New York City is shaping up to be a referendum not just on Andrew Cuomo’s qualifications but on the broader cultural and political attitudes toward sexual misconduct. Whether Cuomo’s candidacy succeeds or fails will have significant implications for how future candidates with similar baggage are treated by voters and political leaders. For now, the silence of Democratic leaders and the resilience of Cuomo’s campaign serve as a stark reminder of the challenges women face in seeking justice and accountability in the public eye.