Andrew Cuomo eyes NYC comeback; Angela Aquino floated as running mate

Fil-Am Angela Aquino

MANILA, Philippine – Former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo is expected to announce his candidacy for mayor by the end of the month, marking his return to politics after years of absence. As he builds his campaign, speculation is growing over who will join his slate.

Sources indicate that longtime ally Charlie King has reached out to Filipino-American political figure Angela Aquino to discuss her campaign status and has reportedly invited her to be his public advocate candidate. While neither Cuomo nor Aquino has confirmed any formal alliance, the potential pairing presents a compelling political dynamic that could benefit both candidates.

Cuomo’s return to the political arena comes with the challenge of addressing the controversies that forced him from office. He resigned in 2021 following allegations of sexual harassment and has since worked to reframe the narrative surrounding his departure.

He argues that his political enemies—both left-wing Democrats and Trump-aligned Republicans—colluded to remove him from office. More recently, he has pointed to developments he claims vindicate him, including accuser Charlotte Bennett’s decision to drop her lawsuit, which prompted him to file a defamation suit in response.

However, despite his attempts to move past these issues, skepticism remains among voters. If Aquino were to join his ticket, she could help counter lingering concerns about Cuomo’s past. Known as a strong, outspoken leader who challenges the establishment, she may appeal to voters looking for resilience and integrity.

Her background as a single mother, domestic violence survivor, and community activist strengthens her credibility with those seeking accountability and reform.

Beyond providing an opportunity to shift the conversation around Cuomo’s political comeback, Aquino brings a distinct policy focus that aligns with many of Cuomo’s core criticisms of New York City’s current leadership. She has been vocal in her opposition to progressive policies, particularly those championed by current Public Advocate Jumaane Williams.

She has questioned Williams’ focus on asylum seekers over struggling Black New Yorkers, arguing that the city’s priorities are misaligned. This stance mirrors Cuomo’s own critique of the migrant crisis, as both believe New York City has been unfairly burdened while state and federal leaders evade responsibility. Their shared position may appeal to centrist and conservative voters disillusioned with progressive governance.

Aquino’s grassroots appeal could also provide a boost to a Cuomo campaign seeking to rebuild voter enthusiasm. With over 26,000 Instagram followers and a growing base of supporters, she has built an independent platform that reaches younger and more diverse voters.

This ability to engage audiences beyond traditional political structures would add an energetic, reform-minded edge to Cuomo’s ticket. Her status as an outsider could provide a contrast to Cuomo’s deep experience in government, creating a narrative of both steady leadership and fresh perspectives.

Her emphasis on public safety and crime reduction also complements Cuomo’s record of prioritizing law and order. She has openly criticized progressive policies that she believes have contributed to rising crime rates and has called for stronger policing measures to ensure community safety, particularly in historically underserved areas.

These views align with Cuomo’s own efforts as governor to take a tough stance on crime while balancing criminal justice reforms.

The potential pairing of Cuomo and Aquino would also send a broader political message about challenging Democratic establishment leadership. Both have positioned themselves as critics of the party’s current trajectory, questioning whether progressive policies have weakened public trust in governance.

By bringing Aquino onto his slate, Cuomo would signal that he is willing to break from the status quo and engage with voices advocating for a shift in policy direction.

Additionally, both Cuomo and Aquino have taken strong pro-Israel stances and condemned rising antisemitism in New York City. Aquino has accused Democratic leaders of failing to protect Jewish communities, a sentiment Cuomo has echoed. Their unified position on this issue could help solidify support from Jewish voters, an important constituency in the city’s political landscape.

Economic policy is another area where the two would likely find common ground. The post-pandemic recovery has been difficult for small businesses, many of which have struggled under high taxes, excessive regulations, and increased crime. Aquino has positioned herself as a pro-business advocate, arguing for policies that promote entrepreneurship and investment. Cuomo’s extensive experience in economic development, combined with Aquino’s grassroots advocacy for business-friendly policies, could appeal to working-class voters seeking stability and growth in a recovering economy.

READ: In farewell to New Yorkers, Cuomo says it’s ‘unfair’ he had to resign

While Cuomo has yet to officially announce his candidacy and Aquino has not confirmed any plans to join his ticket, the potential for their collaboration presents an intriguing opportunity. If Cuomo seeks to challenge the far-left Democratic establishment while reaching a broader coalition of voters, Aquino’s presence could help reinforce his campaign’s message and bolster its appeal.