DOJ Probes Andrew Cuomo Over COVID Testimony Amid NYC Mayoral Race

The U.S. Justice Department is investigating Andrew Cuomo, former New York governor and leading Democratic candidate for New York City mayor, over allegations that he misled Congress about his handling of the COVID-19 crisis. The probe stems from a Republican-led referral by a House subcommittee, accusing Cuomo of giving false testimony regarding pandemic-era decisions.

Cuomo, who resigned in 2021 following a separate state-level investigation into sexual harassment claims—which he denies—is currently considered the front-runner in the Democratic primary scheduled for June 24. The winner will face incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, now running as an independent after previously being a Democrat. Adams had once faced bribery and fraud charges, which were later dropped after aligning with Trump-era immigration policies.

The investigation was first reported by the New York Times, though the Justice Department has declined to comment. Cuomo's campaign spokesperson, Rich Azzopardi, criticized the probe, calling it “lawfare and election interference,” and accused Trump and the DOJ of targeting political opponents despite claims of opposing such tactics.

The case highlights continued political friction as former President Donald Trump—who has labeled legal actions against himself as politically motivated—has publicly called for investigations into rivals like Cuomo. While no charges have been filed, the investigation could influence the high-stakes NYC mayoral race and further polarize public opinion.

Cuomo’s team maintains that he testified truthfully about decisions made during the COVID pandemic and cooperated with Congress. Azzopardi emphasized the political nature of the inquiry, asserting it lacks legal merit and is aimed at derailing Cuomo’s campaign.

This federal investigation adds to the mounting legal and political drama surrounding key figures in the 2025 election landscape.