Educators say NO to Cuomo -- the UFT should, too!

We, the members of the United Federation of Teachers, are workers in one of the most diverse and influential cities in the world. We view the mayoral election as a symbol of humanity and hope that reverberates throughout our communities, our schools, and our students. We feel Andrew Cuomo is unfit for leadership in this city for a number of reasons. We demand the UFT disqualify Andrew Cuomo from the UFT endorsement process and support a “Don’t Rank Cuomo” campaign. We are highlighting four areas that we believe clearly exemplify his inability to lead and potential for harm if elected.

1) Andrew Cuomo has been accused by thirteen women of sexual misconduct and intimidation

He has been accused by no less than 13 women of sexual misconduct and intimidation. In addition to this, he is weaponizing our legal system to silence these women who have bravely come forward.  As teachers, parents and residents of this city we cannot, in good conscience, support him as a mayoral candidate. Our youth cannot be told that it is acceptable to assault and intimidate others without consequences. Our youth will see that no matter what a man does to a woman, he is not held accountable; even worse, that they are still being considered for the top leadership position in our city. 

2) Andrew Cuomo betrayed public sector workers and unions by establishing tier 6

As Michael Mulgrew stated in the President's Perspective in 2024, “In April 2012, in a sneak attack on labor unions and public sector workers, Cuomo forced through pension legislation — packaged as a new tier — that reduced pension benefits for state and city employees hired after that date while requiring higher contributions from those same employees.​ That’s how Tier 6 came to be."

We have already had a failed relationship with Andrew Cuomo. He has displayed his contempt toward public sector workers. He is not our friend. With a crowded field of mayoral candidates who vow to fix tier 6, it would be egregious to even consider endorsing the candidate who created tier 6.

3) Andrew Cuomo underfunded public schools

During his first year as Governor, Andrew Cuomo cut the New York State school budget by over $1 billion and unsuccessfully attempted to repeal the Foundation Aid Formula in 2017. He also failed to deliver on his promises of fully funded state-wide pre-K. It is clear that Andrew Cuomo will not be a champion to our students and he is willing to leave the most vulnerable of our student populations behind while he doles out tax breaks to millionaires. 

4) Andrew Cuomo supported policy that was negligent and led to COVID deaths of many senior citizens residing in nursing homes

As a result of gross and deadly negligence during the COVID epidemic, Andrew Cuomo endangered the lives of many by way of harmful policies. Senior citizens were put directly in harm's way when Cuomo directed COVID patients be placed into nursing homes. He was then accused of lying to congress about COVID statistics and information; this case has since been referred to the Department of Justice.

The UFT is made up of some of the most hardworking, moral and caring people this city has to offer. We demand the UFT represent its members by not considering any endorsement or support for Andrew Cuomo. Further, we urge the UFT to echo the opinions of its members and condemn Cuomo’s conduct and his shameless run for office.