Among Harlem’s Elderly, Support for Andrew Cuomo Remains Strong

Francesca Regalado
Sep 4, 2018 · 2 min read

HARLEM, NY — Hours before Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s debate with his Democratic primary challenger, the actor and activist Cynthia Nixon, his deputy addressed a gathering of senior citizens in Harlem, describing her campaign as a battle against not just Nixon, but also the White House.

Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul, fresh from a debate with Nixon’s running mate, City Councilman Jumaane Williams, told the crowd, “I’m just here to have some fun.” But she did not hesitate to speak about her and Mr. Cuomo’s platform, especially in relation to President Trump.

“I’m a fighter and I love a good fight, and these days we have so many fights to do because of Donald Trump in the White House,” Hochul said.

“I don’t want to make this a political event,” she added quickly. “Just pretend I didn’t say that.”

Jean Covington, a Harlem resident, was not there for Hochul. “I’m a part of this community and I love my community and I came to hear my senator speak,” she said.

The annual event, dubbed Senior Day, was organized by Harlem’s representatives, State Sen. Brian A. Benjamin and City Councilman Bill Perkins. Senior citizens filled a large tent outside the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building, despite a high of 93 degrees.

“We had 701 RSVPs,” said Neil Douglas Reilly, communications director for Mr. Benjamin.

At one table, the NYC Department of Aging took blood pressure readings. Another tent offered massages to combat diabetic foot problems.

But the event was also a stump opportunity for local politicians. Regarding Hochul, Assemblyman Al Taylor told the crowd, “We need to make sure our LG goes back.”

“Not a problem,” said Mary Griffin, a Harlem resident originally from Roslyn, NY. “I think he’s doing the very best he can,” she said about Cuomo.

Robert Williams, a Harlemer for 57 years, said he would watch the debate and vote in the September 13 primary. About Nixon, he said, “She ain’t got a chance in hell.”

“I just don’t want a change at this time,” said Griffin. “We need a strong voice against President Trump.”

Covington, who lives in senior housing, was uncertain: “I’m leaning towards Cuomo but I have a few problems with him.”

“We understand there’s a lot of frustration,” said Hochul to reporters. “The governor just announced new housing for seniors two days ago,” she said, referring to financing for 1,000 NYCHA units in Central Brooklyn.

In Harlem, Covington sees no improvement. “They’re trying to price us out,” she said. “They need to make us feel safe in our apartments and I don’t see the governor doing anything about it.”

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Francesca Regalado

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