New York City Mayor Eric Adams insists that former Governor Andrew Cuomo must address his handling of nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic if he intends to run for mayor. Adams' comments came in response to a reporter's question about whether the alleged undercounting of COVID-related nursing home deaths should disqualify Cuomo from the mayoral race.

Adams emphasized the importance of Cuomo answering these concerns directly to the families affected by the pandemic. He referenced a 2022 report by the New York state comptroller that indicated the Cuomo administration lacked transparency and significantly underreported nursing home deaths during the pandemic, sometimes by as much as 50%.

The former governor faced scrutiny last year from Republican lawmakers regarding a March 2020 directive that prohibited nursing homes from turning away patients who tested positive for COVID-19. This policy resulted in over 9,000 recovering COVID patients being transferred to nursing homes, a decision later rescinded amidst concerns it exacerbated outbreaks. While a subsequent report commissioned by Governor Kathy Hochul concluded that the policies, though hastily implemented, were based on the scientific understanding at the time, Cuomo representatives maintain he acted appropriately.

In addition to the nursing home controversy, Adams acknowledged the sexual harassment allegations against Cuomo, stating that these too must be addressed during the campaign. Cuomo resigned in August 2021 following these allegations, which he denies. He recently announced his mayoral bid, citing a sense of crisis and disorder in the city. Adams expressed respect for the women who made the allegations and reiterated the need for Cuomo to respond to these concerns publicly.