Cuomo Blames Trump’s 'MAGA Line' for COVID Nursing Home Scandal in NYC Debate

In a heated New York City mayoral primary debate on Wednesday, former Governor Andrew Cuomo found himself in the hot seat over his handling of the COVID-19 crisis, particularly the nursing home controversy. Facing sharp questions from moderators and fellow Democratic candidates, Cuomo deflected criticism by pinning the ongoing Justice Department investigation on what he called the 'Trump line' and 'MAGA tactics', suggesting it’s all political gamesmanship tied to Trump’s re-election efforts.

Cuomo dismissed the probe into his alleged false congressional testimony as a partisan attack, comparing it to investigations launched against other prominent Democrats. 'This is what Mr. Trump does,' he argued, portraying himself as a seasoned adversary to the former president. He positioned himself as the candidate Trump would least want to face, touting his experience in standing up to Trump’s agenda during his governorship.

Despite persistent questioning, Cuomo insisted he told Congress the truth about nursing home deaths in New York during the pandemic, firmly denying any undercounting. However, he sidestepped direct answers about his involvement in a contested COVID-19 report, a key focus of the investigation. His refusal to clarify only fueled the fire on stage, as competitors and moderators pressed for accountability.

The debate, one of two ahead of the June 24 Democratic primary, showcased a crowded field of nine candidates vying for the nomination in a heavily blue city where the primary winner is likely to clinch the general election in November. Cuomo remains the frontrunner in both polling and fundraising, leveraging his name recognition, though his past decisions continue to haunt his campaign.

What’s clear is that Cuomo’s strategy hinges on framing these controversies as political witch hunts rather than addressing the substantive concerns head-on. Whether New Yorkers buy this narrative or demand deeper answers remains to be seen as early voting kicks off on June 14.