Andrew Cuomo

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Andrew Mark Cuomo (born December 6, 1957) is an American lawyer, author, and politician who served as the 56th Governor of New York from January 1, 2011, to August 23, 2021. A member of the Democratic Party, Cuomo previously served as the United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development from 1997 to 2001 under President Bill Clinton, and as the Attorney General of New York from 2007 to 2010.

Early Life and Education

Andrew Cuomo was born in Queens, New York City, to Mario Cuomo, former Governor of New York, and Matilda Raffa. He is the eldest of their five children. Cuomo graduated from Archbishop Molloy High School in 1975, received his bachelor's degree from Fordham University in 1979, and obtained his Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from Albany Law School of Union University, New York, in 1982.

Career

Early Career

Before entering politics, Cuomo was a campaign manager for his father, Mario Cuomo's 1982 gubernatorial campaign. He also founded Housing Enterprise for the Less Privileged (HELP) in 1986 and served as an assistant district attorney in New York City.

Secretary of Housing and Urban Development

In 1997, President Bill Clinton appointed Cuomo as the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. During his tenure, he was credited with initiatives to provide affordable housing, combat homelessness, and increase homeownership.

Attorney General of New York

Cuomo served as the Attorney General of New York from 2007 to 2010. In this role, he worked on tackling corruption, environmental protection, and ensuring consumer protection.

Governor of New York

Cuomo was elected Governor of New York in 2010 and was re-elected in 2014 and 2018. His tenure as governor was marked by efforts to legalize same-sex marriage, strict gun control measures, and the passage of the Affordable Care Act's implementation in New York. He also focused on economic development and infrastructure projects, including the renovation of the LaGuardia Airport and the construction of the Mario M. Cuomo Bridge.

Controversies and Resignation

Cuomo's tenure as governor was also marked by several controversies, including his administration's handling of COVID-19 pandemic data related to nursing home deaths. In 2021, multiple allegations of sexual harassment were made against him, leading to widespread calls for his resignation. Cuomo resigned from office on August 23, 2021, amid these allegations and an impeachment investigation.

Personal Life

Cuomo was married to Kerry Kennedy, daughter of Robert F. Kennedy, from 1990 to 2005. They have three daughters. He has also been in a relationship with Sandra Lee, a television personality and author.

Legacy

Cuomo's legacy is complex, marked by significant legislative achievements and infrastructure projects but overshadowed by controversies and his resignation. His tenure illustrates the challenges and pressures of political leadership in the modern era.