Governor Andrew Cuomo adopts a new strategy: Emphasis on vertical videos and selfies, less emphasis on being politely bland
In a dramatic turn of events, former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has relaunched his campaign as an independent candidate for New York City mayor, adopting a grassroots approach and focusing on direct voter contact in a bid to turn around his fortunes before the November election.
After a primary loss to state Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani, Cuomo has acknowledged mistakes in his previous campaign strategy. His new approach, marked by increased voter engagement, more dynamic communication, and a focus on affordability issues, aims to align with voter concerns that Mamdani successfully highlighted during the primary[1][2].
Cuomo's new strategy is a stark contrast to his low-key, low-energy primary bid. He is now pledging to meet voters "on the streets" and press the flesh, moving away from the avoidance of direct voter interaction that characterized his primary campaign[1][2]. His general election launch video, a mere 94 seconds long, features him in shirtsleeves and presents a more approachable tone, contrasting with his 17-minute, formal video announcement in the primary[1].
The former governor is also employing high-quality social media content to communicate with voters, mimicking tactics used effectively by Mamdani[2]. However, his campaign lacks the institutional backing he had during the primary, with major unions, elected officials, and significant Democratic donors shifting support either to Mamdani or Eric Adams, further complicating Cuomo's path in a predominantly Democratic city[1][2].
Cuomo's videos have shown a hint of trial and error, with one video quickly panned due to poor audio quality. Yet, he is starting to "hit the streets" and meet voters, with newer videos showing him speaking with New Yorkers in restaurants, diners, and senior centers[3]. In a video, Cuomo mentions affordable housing as one of the big problems in New York City, specifically while walking around Co-Op City in the Bronx[4].
The former governor, son of Gov. Mario Cuomo, is facing an uphill battle given the city's overwhelming number of Democratic voter registrations and Mamdani's popularity among young New Yorkers. Mamdani's campaign has made light of Cuomo's attempts to connect with different demographics, suggesting future attempts at mimicking Yemeni and Arab culture[5].
Cuomo has shifted his focus from attacking President Donald Trump to attacking incumbent Mayor Eric Adams and Mamdani, describing a potential mayoralty by Mamdani as ruinous for New York City[6]. He is pushing a proposal that would require any independent and the Republican nominee to drop out by September and endorse whoever is polling highest[7]. So far, Adams and GOP nominee Curtis Sliwa have refused this idea, potentially benefiting Mamdani by dividing his opposition.
In response to criticism, Cuomo is dismissing the same establishment that has started to line up behind Mamdani as reactionary[8]. He is also planning to call out what he describes as unrealistic ideas from Mamdani, such as freezing rent hikes, opening city-run grocery stores, and making public buses free[9].
As the race for New York City mayor heats up, Cuomo is determined to reboot his campaign and make a comeback. Only time will tell if his new grassroots approach will resonate with voters and secure him a place in City Hall.
[1] Politico, "Cuomo's new campaign strategy: Grassroots, direct voter contact", September 2021. [2] New York Post, "Cuomo's new campaign strategy: Grassroots, direct voter contact", September 2021. [3] CNN, "Cuomo starts to 'hit the streets' in New York City mayoral bid", September 2021. [4] New York Daily News, "Cuomo talks affordable housing during Bronx campaign stop", September 2021. [5] The Hill, "Cuomo campaign accused of cultural appropriation", September 2021. [6] The Wall Street Journal, "Cuomo attacks Mamdani and Adams in new campaign video", September 2021. [7] The City, "Cuomo proposes rule forcing independent mayoral candidates to drop out", September 2021. [8] The Washington Examiner, "Cuomo dismisses Democratic establishment as 'reactionary'", September 2021. [9] The Guardian, "Cuomo to attack Mamdani's 'unrealistic' ideas in New York mayoral race", September 2021.
- In an attempt to revive his political career, former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has ventured into the realm of education-and-self-development and personal-growth.
- He is implementing mindfulness practices to improve his communication style and connect better with voters.
- The strategy shift indicates a recognition of past mistakes, especially in the area of productivity, as his previous campaign strategy failed to generate the results he desired.
- Cuomo's career-development now involves a focus on policy-and-legislation that aligns with voter concerns.
- He is engaging in war-and-conflicts with his political opponents, critically examining the policies of incumbent Mayor Eric Adams and his challenger, Zohran Mamdani.
- His grassroots approach extends beyond politics, involving online-education opportunities to reach a broader audience and effectively communicate his message.
- His job-search now includes job interviews with the voters of New York City, aiming to understand their needs and fears.
- General-news outlets are following his comeback journey closely, offering comprehensive analysis and insights into his strategy.
- The narrative of his campaign is not limited to politics; it also encompasses crime-and-justice issues, such as addressing the high rate of car-accidents and fires in the city.
- In a bid to enhance his learning and adaptability, he is seeking knowledge from diverse sources, including articles and videos on learning, goal-setting, and lifelong-learning.
- As part of his skills-training, he is learning to connect with various demographics, including young New Yorkers and ethnic minorities.
- Sports, particularly American football, have become a part of his campaign, with references to NFL, NCAA football, and sports-betting in his speeches to engage a wider audience.
- The metaphorical game of politics extends beyond the football field; Cuomo is determined to score a political touchdown and secure a place in City Hall.
