The U.S. Department of Justice has now reportedly launched a criminal investigation into former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, focusing on his controversial handling of COVID-19 policies during the pandemic.
This inquiry, which has emerged as Cuomo campaigns for the New York City mayoralty, centers on his directive that required nursing homes to accept patients regardless of their COVID-19 status, a decision that has been linked to thousands of deaths.
According to reports, the investigation began approximately one month ago, following accusations from Republican lawmakers that Cuomo lied to Congress regarding decisions made during his tenure as governor.
Sources familiar with the matter indicated that the inquiry is part of a broader examination of Cuomo’s testimony concerning the state’s nursing home policies, which have come under scrutiny for allegedly underreporting COVID-related fatalities.
Cuomo, who stepped down from the governorship amid scandals involving both his pandemic response and multiple allegations of sexual misconduct, is currently positioned as a leading candidate in the upcoming Democratic primary for mayor.
His spokesperson, Rich Azzopardi, has denounced the investigation as politically motivated, suggesting it is a form of “lawfare” aimed at undermining his campaign. “We have never been informed of any such matter, so why would someone leak it now?” Azzopardi asserted, emphasizing that Cuomo has always strived to provide truthful testimony.
The investigation is reportedly being led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Washington, D.C., which was previously overseen by interim U.S. Attorney Ed Martin.
Jeanine Pirro has since been appointed to the role, and her office will conduct the inquiry.
House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer has claimed to possess “overwhelming evidence” that Cuomo participated in an audit that significantly undercounted COVID-19 deaths in nursing homes by as much as 46%.
This assertion has led to calls for further scrutiny of Cuomo’s actions during a critical period of the pandemic, particularly as the state navigated unprecedented public health challenges.
The timing of this investigation is particularly notable, coinciding with a recent decision by the Justice Department to drop a case against current New York City Mayor Eric Adams, which had raised concerns about political motivations under the previous administration.
The juxtaposition of these developments underscores the complex relationship between politics and the legal system in New York.
As Cuomo’s mayoral bid progresses, the implications of this federal investigation could have significant ramifications not only for his campaign but also for public perception of his tenure as governor.
The inquiry may ultimately shape the narrative surrounding his leadership during one of the most challenging times in recent history, as he seeks to reestablish his political career in the wake of serious allegations and controversies.
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