The New York Post published an editorial on Sept. 8 endorsing former Gov. Andrew Cuomo as the "only choice" to be New York City's next mayor, arguing the city needs an experienced executive to confront rising crime, budgetary pressures and operational challenges.
The opinion piece urged voters to prioritize managerial experience over personality, saying the city requires a "lifesaver on the cement" to handle its 300,000 employees and a roughly $115 billion annual budget. It quoted Cuomo as saying, "No. 1, we must talk to businesses in this town, make them feel wanted. Business fuels this town," and called for steps including affordable housing creation and hiring 5,000 new police officers, with a particular emphasis on subway safety.
The editorial criticized progressive candidates and left-leaning proposals it described as unrealistic, quoting rhetoric that warned against calls to "defund police" and the abolition of jails, and questioned plans such as municipal grocery stores and free rapid bus service. It also singled out a younger candidate as emblematic of the perceived inexperience on the left, describing that contender as "33, three-term assemblyman, worst attendance record in the assembly."
While asserting Cuomo's ability to reduce crime, reopen businesses and control costs, the editorial acknowledged his lack of universal personal affection, saying "you don’t have to invite him home for chicken soup" to accept his managerial credentials.
Cuomo served as New York governor from 2011 until his resignation in 2021 following a state investigation that concluded he had sexually harassed multiple women. Since leaving the governor’s office, he has signaled interest in returning to public life and has been mentioned as a potential candidate for municipal office. The Post opinion framed that experience as a qualification for managing potential crises, including future public-health emergencies and large-scale security incidents.
The endorsement follows a broader debate in the city about the balance between experience and new ideas in municipal leadership. Supporters of an experienced mayor argue New York's scale and complexity demand a seasoned hand to coordinate public safety, sanitation, transportation and a sprawling municipal workforce. Critics of elder- or establishment-oriented candidacies cite ethical concerns and argue for new approaches to housing, policing and social services.
The New York Post's editorial voice is opinion-based and distinct from its news reporting. Endorsements by newspapers are a routine part of political coverage and reflect editorial judgment rather than a comprehensive measure of voter sentiment. The mayoral contest in New York is expected to draw a wide field of candidates across the political spectrum, and voters will weigh competing claims about competence, reform and accountability as the campaign proceeds.