By Steve Neavling
The Justice Department has opened a criminal investigation into Andrew Cuomo, a leading candidate in New York City’s mayoral race, over accusations he misled Congress about pandemic-era decisions made as governor, according to two people familiar with the case, The New York Times reports.
The probe, launched last month by the U.S. attorney’s office in Washington, follows a referral from House Republicans and centers on Cuomo’s directive early in the pandemic requiring nursing homes to admit COVID-19 patients. Cuomo has defended the policy, saying it aligned with federal guidance at the time.
The inquiry comes just weeks after the Trump administration dismissed corruption charges against current Mayor Eric Adams, Cuomo’s top political rival. The back-to-back decisions have raised concerns about the Justice Department being used for political purposes, especially as Trump ramps up pressure on perceived opponents.
Cuomo spokesman Rich Azzopardi denounced the investigation as “lawfare and election interference,” adding that Cuomo testified truthfully to Congress and offered to clarify his remarks.
The U.S. attorney’s office is now led by Jeanine Pirro, a Trump ally and former Fox News host who has publicly accused Cuomo of criminal misconduct. It’s unclear what impact the investigation may have on Cuomo’s campaign ahead of the June 24 primary.
