Cuomo v. Trump: Rising Tensions

The complicated relationship between Governor Cuomo and President Trump has become increasingly exacerbated by the pandemic and upcoming elections. For the last couple of days, the two New York natives have been sparring over the President’s call for the federal government to review potential cuts for cities that have allowed for “lawless” protests. According to the memo released by the White House, New York City is explicitly referenced as one of the cities permitting “anarchy, violence, and destruction.”

Cuomo Delivers a Speech at the DNC

On Monday night, Governor Andrew Cuomo delivered a virtual speech during night one of the Democratic National Convention, drawing on his experience leading New York State through the on-going coronavirus pandemic.

Schools to Resume In-Person Learning in September

After closing schools and switching to an online education model in March, Governor Cuomo says the infection rate is now consistently low enough for schools to reopen in the fall for in-person learning.

Governor Cuomo to Serve as National Association of Governors Chair

NY Governor Cuomo, who will become the longest-serving current governor next year, was unanimously voted to serve as the chair of the association representing the leaders of all 55 states and territories. He is the first New York governor to become chair of the NGA.

New York Budget Cuts on the Horizon

For several months, Governor Cuomo has been vigorously urging Congress to pass a federal stimulus package that includes aid to states hit hard by COVID-19. Just this week, the Governor penned a letter to New York’s congressional delegation, saying the HEALS Act, which is currently being negotiated, is critical to the economic future of New York. Governor Cuomo said that New York is at the end of its rope and will be forced to make billions of dollars in cuts to the State budget if federal funding does not come through in the next two weeks.

Legislative Update

State lawmakers have been busy with a special session this week taking up dozens of issues ranging from COVID-relief to typical “end-of-session” local legislation. Since the effects of COVID-19 have sent this election year awry, special attention has been drawn to the State’s antiquated voting procedures.

New Mandatory Reporting for Travelers from High-Risk States

On Monday, July 13th, Governor Cuomo announced a new mandated form that requires travelers entering NY from restricted states to disclose their travel plans.

NYS Dept. of Health Issues Report on COVID-19 in Nursing Homes

On July 6th, after months of media scrutiny and concerns expressed by legislators and advocacy groups, NYS Department of Health Commissioner Howard Zucker, MD released a report: Factors Associated with Nursing Home Infections and Fatalities in NYS During the COVID-19 Global Health Crisis.

A Pandemic, Protests and Civil Unrest, and now, a Problem-Plagued Primary

Governor Cuomo issued two Executive Orders allowing all New Yorkers to vote absentee in the June 23rd primaries and automatically distributed postage-paid applications to receive a ballot to all New Yorkers.