Summary of "The Stephen A. Smith Show" Episode: Interview Only with Andrew Cuomo
Release Date: March 4, 2025
Host: Stephen A. Smith
Guest: Andrew Cuomo, former Governor of New York
1. Introduction and Comeback Announcement
In this episode, Stephen A. Smith welcomes Andrew Cuomo, the 56th Governor of New York, who served from 2011 until his resignation in 2021. After a three-and-a-half-year hiatus from the political spotlight, Cuomo announces his bid for the mayoralty of New York City, aiming to revitalize the city's deteriorating conditions.
Notable Quote:
"New York City is the greatest city in the world. There is no other place like it."
— Andrew Cuomo [01:00]
2. Motivations for Running for Mayor
Cuomo explains that his decision to return to politics stems from his deep concern over the current state of New York City. He highlights issues such as declining quality of life, high taxes, and the challenges posed by the post-COVID era, where remote work has reduced the necessity of living in a bustling metropolis.
Notable Quote:
"Post Covid, people can be anywhere, Stephen. They don't have to be in a city... So the dynamics have changed, and then the quality of life in New York City has really deteriorated."
— Andrew Cuomo [03:00]
3. Critique of Current Progressive Policies
Cuomo criticizes the recent shift in New York City's philosophy, attributing rising crime rates and homelessness to progressive policies that reduce police funding and emphasize minimal law enforcement. He argues that such approaches have inadvertently fostered chaos and diminished public safety.
Notable Quote:
"If you cut the police, don't be surprised when crime goes up. You cut the police. Don't be surprised when people are afraid to go into the [city] because of the rate of crime."
— Andrew Cuomo [04:40]
4. Addressing Past Controversies
Cuomo confronts his past, including the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent sexual harassment allegations. He defends his administration's response to the pandemic, particularly in nursing homes, asserting that New York had one of the lower death rates among states. Regarding the harassment claims, he maintains that investigations yielded no substantial findings against him.
Handling COVID-19 in Nursing Homes:
"New York officials, health officials, not only did their job, but did it well. Only 12 states had a lower rate of death than New York."
— Andrew Cuomo [17:55]
Response to Harassment Allegations:
"Time brings out the truth...millions of dollars later, in terms of people investigating complaints, nothing has come from any of those complaints."
— Andrew Cuomo [21:01]
5. Vision and Plans as Mayor
Cuomo outlines his primary focus areas as mayor, emphasizing public safety as the cornerstone for overall city improvement. He advocates for increased police presence, better enforcement of laws, and comprehensive strategies to address homelessness and mental health issues. Additionally, Cuomo highlights the need for affordable housing and infrastructure modernization.
Notable Quote:
"Public safety. Public safety. Public safety. If people don't feel safe, nothing works."
— Andrew Cuomo [40:47]
6. Relationship with the Federal Government
Discussing the interplay between city and federal policies, Cuomo touches upon potential collaborations with the Trump administration. He believes that leveraging his previous interactions with Donald Trump, a fellow New Yorker, could be advantageous in securing federal support for city initiatives.
Notable Quote:
"Donald Trump is from New York City and he knows our problems here. He knows we need federal help."
— Andrew Cuomo [32:38]
7. Personal Reflections and Legacy
Cuomo reflects on his political journey, influenced by his late father, Mario Cuomo, a revered former governor. He emphasizes his commitment to public service and his desire to leave New York City in a better state for future generations. Cuomo admits to areas where he could have improved, particularly in patience and communication.
Notable Quote:
"Making government work, making progress, that's what a progressive is all about."
— Andrew Cuomo [06:42]
"I would bring more patience to the job. I would hope to be as productive, but with more patience."
— Andrew Cuomo [36:47]
8. Addressing Election Dynamics and Competitors
Cuomo discusses the competitive landscape of the mayoral race, particularly referencing current Mayor Eric Adams. He asserts that his extensive experience and proven track record make him a formidable candidate, capable of addressing the city's multifaceted challenges more effectively than his opponents.
Notable Quote:
"I'm running against myself. Play my best game. If I play my best game, it doesn't matter who's in the race."
— Andrew Cuomo [09:12]
9. Concluding Remarks
In his closing statements, Cuomo reiterates his dedication to transforming New York City through actionable policies and effective governance. He dismisses rumors of further political ambitions, focusing instead on the immediate goal of improving the city's infrastructure, safety, and quality of life.
Notable Quote:
"I have one goal, which is trying and succeeding in making a difference for New York City today."
— Andrew Cuomo [39:37]
10. Final Thoughts from Stephen A. Smith
Stephen A. Smith concludes the interview by acknowledging Cuomo's extensive experience and potential impact on New York City. He extends his best wishes, emphasizing Cuomo's proven ability to address and fix critical issues.
Notable Quote:
"I think the one thing all of us can undoubtedly acknowledge, we can't deny, is that if there's a problem, you know how to fix it."
— Stephen A. Smith [48:00]
Conclusion
This episode offers a comprehensive look into Andrew Cuomo's motivations for returning to politics, his critique of current policies, and his strategic vision for New York City’s future. By addressing past controversies and outlining clear plans for public safety and infrastructure, Cuomo positions himself as a dedicated and experienced candidate poised to lead New York City through its challenges.