The unions representing FDNY members are totally behind ex-Gov. Andrew Cuomo for mayor, like, really showing that he’s got all the labor love before the Democratic Party primary happens in a few weeks.
Cuomo snagged the support of the Uniformed Firefighters Association and the Uniformed Firefighters Officers Association, adding to his already long list of endorsements from the ambulance workers’ unions — EMS Local 2507 and EMS Officers Union Local 3621.
“Andrew Cuomo has always been there for us firefighters and first responders in New York. He really showed us that he cares about our lives, safety, and dignity,” said UFA president Andrew Ansbro.
Ansbro also pointed out how Cuomo made sure that emergency services got their hands on PPE and testing early on during the COVID-19 pandemic, even before the feds stepped in to help out. Plus, he passed laws to protect 9/11 responders and their families, which is pretty cool of him.
UFOA president James Brosi chimed in, saying that Cuomo has been all about supporting the civil service system and making sure pensions are safe and sound. Brosi also mentioned how Cuomo is all about expanding public safety personnel and infrastructure as the city gets more crowded, which is great news for New Yorkers.
Cuomo himself promised to always have the backs of the FDNY, saying, “Being a firefighter isn’t just a job — it’s a calling. These brave men and women put their lives on the line every single day to help others, and that deserves all the recognition in the world.”
Despite some criticism about how Cuomo handled the COVID-19 situation, especially that controversial nursing home directive from March 2020, the unions are still firmly in his corner. Not really sure why this matters, but hey, that’s politics for you.
The ex-governor also made sure to pay tribute to the 343 firefighters who died on 9/11 and those who passed away later from illnesses related to the toxic fumes they were exposed to. He promised to fight for all the resources these heroes need and deserve, which is a pretty big deal.
Cuomo is definitely the top dog in the mayoral primary, even though he had to step down as governor because of all those sexual misconduct allegations he denies. But hey, that doesn’t seem to faze the labor unions, who are all about him.
He’s got the backing of the Teamsters, health care workers 1199SEIU, 32BJ SEIU, the Hotel and Gaming Trades Council, and most of the construction trade unions. Looks like Cuomo is the favorite among the labor crowd, no doubt about it.
UFA endorsed Andrew Yang in the last primary, while Mayor Eric Adams had the UFOA on his side. It’s like a game of musical chairs with these unions, but hey, that’s how the cookie crumbles in politics.
In the end, Cuomo is standing strong with the support of the labor unions, ready to take on the mayoral race and fight for the people of New York City. It’s a wild ride, but he’s definitely in it to win it.
