UAW Video Criticizes Cuomo, Endorses Mamdani for New York Mayor

UAW Criticizes Former Governor Cuomo, Endorses Mamdani for Mayor

NEW YORK—The United Auto Workers (UAW) organization has released a video targeting Andrew Cuomo for what they describe as his shortcomings in supporting New York's working class during his tenure as governor. Recently, UAW Region 9A endorsed Zohran Mamdani as their top candidate for mayor, recommending voters deliberately exclude Cuomo from their preferences. The union was the first to back Mamdani and has voiced strong criticism of Cuomo's performance from a labor perspective.

UAW President Shawn Fain remarked, “In the UAW, our endorsements are earned. We support politicians who stand with us, and who have the courage to fight for the working class.”

Fain also praised Mamdani, noting, “Zohran Mamdani has stood shoulder to shoulder with us in our fight against some of the toughest bosses in New York City. He’s been to countless UAW picket lines. He’s fought for better wages, for our livelihoods, and for a livable city for UAW members.”

The UAW is pushing for leaders who prioritize workers over corporate interests. “We need new elected leaders who are not afraid to pick a side—politicians who will put workers over corporate donors every single time,” Fain stated, in explaining the union's support for Mamdani.

Watch the video here, available for media usage. 

In 2019, the UAW influenced the legislation passing unemployment benefits for strikers. During a six-week strike at General Motors, the benefits were unavailable because Cuomo did not sign the bill, nor did he show solidarity at the picket lines. UAW members felt unsupported by Cuomo in their time of need.

UAW Region 9A Director Brandon Mancilla criticized Cuomo’s lack of action, stating, “We can’t trust politicians who got us into the current mess to lead us out...especially when they refused to support striking workers when they needed help the most.”

Mancilla further emphasized the need for change in leadership, saying, “20,000 UAW members in New York City know that they can stand up for a future in New York and reject the corruption and cronyism of Andrew Cuomo.” He continued by outlining the union's vision, which includes initiatives like a rent freeze, fast and free buses, and universal childcare.

During 2023’s Stand Up Strike, supported by a broad coalition of politicians and 80% of Americans, Cuomo’s conspicuous absence contrasted sharply with the active participation of UAW’s endorsed candidates. Compared to other political figures, Cuomo’s lack of presence at labor protests has been notable.

Full transcript of the UAW’s new video regarding Cuomo’s labor stance available here: 

Dan Maloney, UAW Local 1097 President (Rochester):

“I’m sure other speakers will talk about the 15,000 seniors that died in New York State nursing homes due to Covid and the serious missteps of the Cuomo administration. I’m not here to talk about that.

I’m sure other speakers will discuss the multiple sexual harassment charges brought against former governor Cuomo, but that’s not what I’m here to talk about, either.

I’m here to tell you that when the United Auto Workers needed Governor Cuomo’s help, he turned his back on us.”

Brandon Mancilla, UAW Region 9A Director:

“Our members want a better, safer, and more affordable city. Someone who passes up the opportunity to support workers in a time of crisis, that person is unfit to be mayor of working class New Yorkers.”

Wence Valentin III, UAW Region 9 CAP Director (Tonawanda):

“Our membership across the country went out on strike in September of 2019 against GM. UAW Region 9 and 9A worked hard, lobbied the state legislature to get a bill passed that would ensure that unemployment would come after one week. Cuomo, as governor, had the chance to sign that bill into law. Not only did he not sign that bill into law, he never stepped foot on any of our strike lines. Let me repeat that. He never stepped foot on any of our strike lines. Cuomo was absent and ignored every one of our calls. This is a man who wants you all to believe he supports labor.”

Zohran Mamdani:

“We’re talking about a man who created tier six, which took more than $100,000 out of the pockets of working class public sector workers. A man who I just saw for the first time in my life just last week, describing tier six as ancient history. The only thing that’s ancient history is Andrew Cuomo.”

Brad Lander:

“Enough with the corruption. Enough with the chaos. Enough with the yielding to corporate bosses. Let’s elect a mayor who works for working New Yorkers.”

Dan Maloney:

“When we needed Andrew Cuomo, Cuomo showed cowardice. So New Yorkers... Don’t get fooled again.”