Podcast Summary: "Andrew Cuomo" Episode of In These Times with Rabbi Ammi Hirsch

Podcast Information:

• Title: In These Times with Rabbi Ammi Hirsch
• Host: Rabbi Ami Hirsch, Stephen Wise Free Synagogue, New York
• Episode: Andrew Cuomo
• Release Date: May 22, 2025

Introduction

In this compelling episode of In These Times, Rabbi Ami Hirsch engages in an in-depth conversation with Andrew Cuomo, the former Governor of New York and a leading candidate in the New York City mayoral race. The discussion navigates through Cuomo's extensive public service career, his perspectives on current political climates, antisemitism, the Democratic Party's evolving stance on Israel, and the pressing challenges facing New York City today.

Andrew Cuomo's Public Service and Motivation

Cuomo begins by reflecting on his lifelong commitment to public service, tracing his roots back to assisting his father, Mario Cuomo, in gubernatorial campaigns. He emphasizes the personal sacrifices involved, including time away from family and the emotional toll of navigating a toxic political environment.

"Public service, you pay a tremendous price, a higher price than I realized... But the but is you get to do a tremendous amount of good for people if you do it right." [02:47]

He highlights significant achievements during his tenure, such as making New York the first major state to pass marriage equality, establishing LaGuardia Airport's transformation, and infrastructure developments like the Moynihan Train Hall.

"LaGuardia is beautiful, isn't it?... Where do you get a chance to do something like that in life?" [05:06]

Changes in Political Climate and Democracy

The conversation shifts to the evolving nature of politics, with Cuomo expressing concern over the increasing politicization of government and the erosion of democratic norms.

"It is much nastier. This use of the justice system to play politics is frightening." [06:13]

He attributes the coarsening of political discourse partly to social media's influence, which fosters anonymity and encourages extreme expressions that erode respectful debate.

"The coarsening, I think, is partially social media...that has affected the political discourse back and forth." [07:03]

Antisemitism and Anti-Zionism

A significant portion of the discussion focuses on the surge of antisemitism in the United States, particularly following the tragic events of October 7th. Cuomo articulates his shock and confusion over the rise in anti-Jewish incidents, attributing it to a combination of historical tensions and modern societal fractures.

"Whenever there's a tension, there's an issue. It seems like fingers get pointed to the Jews first." [11:26]

He delves into the complex relationship between anti-Zionism and antisemitism, arguing that while criticism of Israeli policies is legitimate, the current wave of anti-Zionism often crosses into outright antisemitism.

"Anti Zionism is anti Semitism. That's where I believe we are." [18:15]

Democratic Party Dynamics and Support for Israel

Cuomo expresses concern over the Democratic Party's shifting stance on Israel, noting a growing faction aligned with the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) that supports Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) against Israel. He laments the departure from the party's traditional bipartisan support for Israel.

"Being a Democrat was synonymous with supporting Israel. There wasn't even a conversation." [20:22]

Cuomo warns that this shift may lead to a generational disengagement from pro-Israel sentiments within the party, potentially weakening long-standing alliances.

"I think there's a whole generation out there...they don't want to hear history." [23:22]

Addressing Antisemitism in Universities and Politics

The episode examines the response of academic institutions to rising antisemitism. Cuomo critiques university administrations for their initial inaction and perceived bias towards anti-Zionist sentiments, which he believes exacerbated the situation.

"It's incompetence meets fear. I don't think a lot of these administrators had dealt with a situation like this." [30:53]

He advocates for a more assertive approach in enforcing laws against hate crimes and emphasizes the importance of political allies to support the Jewish community.

"I would take much more aggressive action." [33:26]

Challenges for New York City

Cuomo outlines his vision for addressing the multifaceted challenges facing New York City, including:

• Broken Government and Public Safety: He criticizes the current administration for inefficiency and chaos, citing issues like homelessness, mental illness, and public disorder.

  "You have a broken government in New York. It just doesn't function. And the city feels out of control and chaotic." [37:37]

• Economic Concerns: Emphasizing the need for business growth and job creation, Cuomo warns against anti-business policies that could drive economic decline.

  "You need business, you need jobs, you need growth, you need income." [37:37]

• Federal Relations: He expresses apprehension about potential federal budget cuts impacting blue states and urban centers, threatening essential services.

  "They'll cut Medicaid, they'll cut housing assistance...funding that would go to poorer people." [37:37]

Cuomo's Campaign Vision and Policies

Promising a proactive and experienced leadership, Cuomo positions himself as a battle-tested candidate capable of restoring order and fostering growth in New York City. His platform includes:

• Aggressive Enforcement Against Hate: Implementing strict measures against antisemitic actions and ensuring the protection of Jewish students and community members.

  "I would use the human rights law violations...let me take the heat." [33:26]

• Political Mobilization: Encouraging the Jewish community and allies to actively participate in elections, voice their concerns, and support pro-Israel candidates.

  "Be more aggressive politically, more outspoken. There's a congressman from New York who's a great champion for the Jewish community." [24:39]

• Urban Revitalization: Tackling issues like public safety, cleanliness, and infrastructure to make urban centers vibrant and secure.

  "Urban areas are in desperate condition...you have people leaving these urban areas and then you're going to see it compounded." [39:31]

Conclusion and Final Messages

In his closing remarks, Cuomo underscores the interconnectedness of antisemitism with broader societal discrimination, labeling it not just as a Jewish issue but as an affront to American democracy itself. He calls for unity and proactive measures to safeguard democratic values and protect marginalized communities.

"Antisemitism is not just about Jewish people. It is about discrimination. It is about differentiation. It is anti American." [40:30]

Cuomo also highlights the critical role of urban centers in the national economy and warns of dire consequences if current trends continue unchecked.

"Urban centers are essential to this national economy." [40:30]

Rabbi Ami Hirsch's Closing Remarks

Rabbi Hirsch concludes the episode by reaffirming the synagogue's commitment to supporting policies that uphold Jewish values and defend against antisemitism. She emphasizes the importance of gratitude, community solidarity, and recognizing allies in the fight against discrimination and inequality.

"The struggle against antisemitism is not for Jews alone. The fight against racism is not for minorities alone. And the fight against economic inequality is not for the dispossessed alone." [42:09]

This episode provides a profound exploration of the current political and social challenges facing both the Jewish community and the broader American society. Cuomo's insights offer listeners a nuanced understanding of the intersection between politics, identity, and community resilience in today's complex landscape.