NYC firefighter unions back Andrew Cuomo for mayor, solidifying labor support

The unions representing FDNY members are backing ex-Gov.Andrew Cuomo for mayor, solidifying the frontrunner’s support among labor groups weeks before a Democratic Party primary.Cuomo picked up the backing of the Uniformed Firefighters Association and the Uniformed Firefighters Officers Association after picking up endorsements from the department’s ambulance workers’ unions — EMS Local 2507 and EMS Officers Union Local 3621.“Throughout his time as governor, Andrew Cuomo consistently demonstrated that he values the lives, safety, and dignity of New York’s firefighters and first responders,” said Andrew Ansbro, UFA president.“During the COVID-19 pandemic, when the city was under siege, he ensured emergency services were prioritized for PPE [personal protective equipment] and testing long before federal support arrived.”He also said Cuomo pushed through laws that protected 9/11 responders and their families.Ansbro’s praise of Cuomo’s management of the COVID-19 pandemic in New York counters severe criticism that he mishandled the outbreak — particularly when his administration issued a controversial March 2020 edict that required nursing homes to admit recovering COVID-infected patients discharged from hospitals.UFOA president James Brosi said Cuomo has supported the integrity of the civil service system and protecting pensions.“As zoning changes and increased population density strain our resources, Andrew supports the expansion of public safety personnel and infrastructure to meet growing demands—ensuring that New York remains not only livable, but safe for all who call it home,” Brosi said.Cuomo vowed to champion the bravest in the FDNY.“Being a firefighter isn’t just a job—it’s a calling,” Cuomo said.

“The brave men and women of the FDNY put their lives on the line every day, in aid of others, without hesitation.”In a statement, he mentioned the 343 firefighters killed responding to the Sept.11, 2001 terrorist attacks th...