Former New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg has thrown his support behind Andrew Cuomo in the race for mayor, citing Cuomo’s deep experience and proven ability to get things done as critical qualities the city needs at this moment.

“I care deeply about the future of our city, and since leaving office, it has been difficult to watch its struggles, especially since the pandemic,” Bloomberg wrote in a public statement. “In sizing up the field in the race for mayor, there is one candidate whose management experience and government know-how stand above the others: Andrew Cuomo.”

Bloomberg, who served three terms as mayor from 2002 to 2013, acknowledged past tensions with Cuomo but emphasized that the former governor’s leadership skills outweigh any past disagreements.

“History holds endless examples of friction between mayors and governors,” Bloomberg wrote.

“During my 12 years in City Hall, I served with four New York governors and had differences with all of them, including Cuomo. But I also know his strengths as a leader and manager. Of all the candidates, Andrew has the skills our city needs to lead us forward.”

Bloomberg praised Cuomo’s pragmatic approach to governance and his record of delivering on major infrastructure projects.

“He has decades of experience navigating state and federal governments. He has governed as a pragmatist, focused on solving problems rather than engaging in ideological or partisan warfare,” he noted. “And he has shown that he can get big things done, including the redevelopment of LaGuardia Airport, the opening of the 2nd Avenue Subway, and the creation of Moynihan Station – all long-stalled projects that he jump-started and completed.”

Calling on voters to consider the city’s pressing needs, Bloomberg made his case clearly: “The question before New Yorkers is not: Who is the perfect choice? No mayor is perfect. The question is: Who is the best choice? To me, that choice is clear: Andrew Cuomo.”

The endorsement from Bloomberg, a billionaire businessman and influential political figure, adds significant weight to Cuomo’s campaign and may shift momentum as the race heats up