Has Andrew Cuomo Effectively Governed New York?
Andrew Cuomo, who served as the Governor of New York from 2007 to 2021, left a mixed legacy in the eyes of many New Yorkers. During his tenure, Cuomo was both praised and criticized, often for the same actions. This article delves into the myriad of controversies and questionable decisions that highlight the complexities of his governance.
Controversies of Andrew Cuomo's Governance
Despite his contributions, Cuomo's tenure is largely defined by numerous controversies, ranging from personal scandals to significant policy decisions. His arrogance, ineptitude, and ego have played central roles in shaping this narrative. One of the most significant issues under his watch was the management of the nursing home crisis during the pandemic.
According to reports, Cuomo's decisions led to the infection and subsequent deaths of over 15,000 nursing home seniors. His policies included the defunding of the New York Police Department (NYPD) amidst instances of riots in New York City, leading to a rise in crime and property destruction. Additionally, his orders to shutter businesses, except for liquor stores, drug stores, and groceries, resulted in hundreds of billions of forced unemployment, business bankruptcies, and suicides.
Policy Decisions and Economic Impact
Andrew Cuomo's economic policies have been criticized for their detrimental effects on New York's economy. His decision to ban fracking in the state was seen as a move towards economic depression in much of the state. His war on gas pipelines made energy more expensive, causing some utilities to stop taking new customers temporarily. The forced closure of the Indian Point nuclear plant, which provided 25% of New York City's power, has raised energy prices, necessitating the construction of new plants that lack the necessary natural gas infrastructure.
Moreover, Cuomo's wasteful investments in state-sponsored projects, such as a solar panel plant that went bankrupt and an attempt to economically develop Western New York, resulted in billions of dollars being wasted or embezzled. This mismanagement led to multiple prison sentences, including that of one of his close aides.
Political Intrigue and Power Structure
The political landscape within the state was also marred by Cuomo's influence. He presided over a "three men in a room" power structure, where all major decisions were made by him and the leaders of the Senate and Assembly, effectively marginalizing the rest of the state legislature. This arrangement proved toxic and led to the conviction and prison sentences of those leaders, while Cuomo narrowly escaped.
Personal and professional scandals further tarnished his reputation. For instance, his sexual harassment of several women in the workplace has been reported, with subsequent retaliation against those who came forward. These actions have led to an impeachment process that seemed unlikely a few months ago, but now appears imminent.
Public Perception and Reevaluation
While some perceive Cuomo's governance as having its merits, the consensus leans towards mixed reviews. There are instances where he made significant positive impacts, such as addressing certain environmental issues or promoting certain policies. However, the overall perception is one of constant scrutiny and criticism.
The question of whether Cuomo's tenure was effective is complicated. If the standard for effectiveness is simply that the state did not fall into the ocean, then the answer might be yes. Nevertheless, the list of questionable policy decisions is extensive, and the impact of his actions is multifaceted. As his third term came to an end, it is clear that his governance will be remembered more for its controversies than its successes.
Impeachment Developments:
On August 10, 2021, Andrew Cuomo announced his resignation to avoid possible impeachment. His actions, including forced retrofits in nursing homes during the pandemic, have further alienated his political allies, leaving him in a precarious position.
Despite all that has transpired, Cuomo’s defiant stance and his belief that he has done nothing wrong continue to define his legacy. His refusal to resign, even as the possibility of impeachment looms, highlights a personality that values self-aggrandizement over public service.