The head of Brooklyn’s Democratic Party, Assembly Member Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn, announced on Sunday that she is endorsing former Gov. Andrew Cuomo for mayor of New York City.
Bichotte Hermelyn, who is the state Assembly majority whip, touted Cuomo’s extensive experience as both NYS governor and attorney general as key factors in his ability to lead the city.
“Andrew Cuomo has steadfastly served as an exemplary public servant for the betterment of our city and state for decades, starting right here in Brooklyn, where he began as a community advocate,” Bichotte Hermelyn said in a statement. “Cuomo never forgot his roots, or the importance of fighting for equality and opportunity, as he served as Attorney General of New York starting in 2006, then as our governor for 11 years.”
The endorsement struck a critical blow to Mayor Eric Adams’ re-election hopes, as Bichotte Hermelyn had previously supported him four years ago — and had stood by him even following his criminal indictment last year.
Cuomo is the frontrunner in the 2025 mayoral race, even though he only threw his hat into the ring on March 1. Other key contenders in the highly contentious race include NYC Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, NYC Comptroller Brad Lander, and the incumbent Mayor Adams.
Though Cuomo’s political career in recent years was ripe with scandals and baggage, most notably his 2021 resignation from the governor’s office amid multiple accusations of sexual misconduct—which he has always denied—Bichotte Hermelyn said he is the right man for the job.
“During his tenure, he led our city through the darkest depths of the COVID-19 pandemic, while instituting real change that made New York City safer, stronger and more liveable and affordable for all,” said Bichotte Hermelyn, who joined Cuomo’s campaign as a political senior executive advisor.
Speaking of the pandemic, Cuomo was also scrutinized for his handling of NYS nursing homes during the treacherous time in NYC, national and world history.
Yet the assembly member advocated for Cuomo, saying he is ready to take on some of the toughest challenges facing the Big Apple today, like affordability issues, crime and homelessness.
“Cuomo not only has the right leadership skills, but has an extensive plan with a strong network of support to tackle the unique issues and crisis our city is facing today, including a lack of affordability; rising mental health, addiction, and homelessness rates; and barriers to accessing education,” she said.
Cuomo, meanwhile, thanked Bichotte Hermelyn for her endorsement and support while highlighting some of her accomplishments in office.
“Brooklyn is home to the largest number of Democrats in any county in the nation and I am humbled to have the support of its great Democratic leader, Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn, at this critical moment for our city,” the candidate said. “She is a great friend and a true partner in government, who I was proud to work with to raise the wage for millions of working class New Yorkers, to enact the nation’s strongest paid family leave program and pass the toughest gun violence prevention laws in the country.”
The Democratic mayoral primary takes place on June 24.
