Andrew Cuomo Expresses Regret Over Resigning as Governor, Criticizes Hochul

Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo says stepping down from office may have been a mistake, and he’s not holding back on his opinion of his successor’s performance.

In a candid interview published Tuesday by The New York Times, Cuomo reflected on his 2021 resignation amid allegations of sexual misconduct. The former 3-term governor now says that, given the chance, he would have chosen to remain in office rather than stepping aside.

“If I had to do it again, I wouldn’t have resigned,” Cuomo told the Times.

He said he initially believed his presence would be too disruptive to the functioning of state government.

“I thought impeachment proceedings would interfere with governance. But looking back... what major progress has been made in the last four years?” he added.

That comment was widely interpreted as a direct jab at Governor Kathy Hochul who took office following Cuomo’s resignation. Though he didn’t mention her by name in that remark, he later doubled down when asked if he was criticizing her time in office.

“You can evaluate the accomplishments of the past four years for yourself,” Cuomo responded, stopping short of direct condemnation but clearly casting doubt on her record.

His comments, however, should not come as a surprise as there were rumors at the time of his resignation that Hochul was working behind the scenes to ensure his departure.

Governor Hochul’s team fired back. Spokesperson Avi Small issued a pointed statement brushing off Cuomo’s remarks while subtly highlighting her administration’s successes.

“Governor Hochul is focused on delivering results for New Yorkers—whether it’s keeping taxes down, addressing crime, or expanding access to affordable housing,” Small said. “It’s no surprise that many of the things Mr. Cuomo is now talking about align closely with her administration’s current efforts.”

Cuomo, who has kept a relatively low profile since resigning, continues to deny all accusations of sexual harassment.

As of today, he remains the frontrunner to win his current race for Mayor of New York City.

Andrew Cuomo Expresses Regret Over Resigning as Governor, Criticizes Hochul