The prospect of a political comeback for Andrew Cuomo, the former New York governor, has been dismissed by his camp as mere speculation. A spokesman for Cuomo labeled recent reports of his interest in running for the House seat of retiring Rep. Jerry Nadler as “nothing more than fan fiction.” The statements follow a flurry of speculation ignited over the weekend when a Jewish Insider reporter claimed that Cuomo was considering a campaign for the New York City seat.
Meanwhile, the race for Nadler’s seat is heating up, as Jack Schlossberg, the grandson of former President John F. Kennedy, is poised to formally announce his congressional candidacy this week. Schlossberg, 32, established an exploratory committee in September and has reportedly already built a campaign team while consulting with key Democratic leadership. Political insiders suggest that his formal declaration is imminent.
The competitive landscape of the New York 12th district is starting to take shape. The seat, which encompasses much of Manhattan, is considered highly desirable, especially following Nadler’s decision not to seek re-election after serving a remarkable 34 years in Congress. Schlossberg’s familial connections, coupled with his online following—172,000 on X, 722,000 on Instagram, and 836,000 on TikTok—position him as a potentially formidable candidate in this already crowded field.
Schlossberg has gained attention not only for his prominent surname but also for his engaging presence on social media, where he shares a mix of humorous, controversial, and politically relevant content. He has garnered both followers and notoriety through posts that range from lighthearted comparisons to earnest political critiques. His approach reflects a strategy to attract attention in a saturated digital landscape, remarking that “flipping people out and getting a reaction is almost half the battle.”
As Schlossberg prepares to enter the fray, he will face stiff competition, particularly from Assemblyman Micah Lasher, who was the first to officially declare his candidacy. Lasher’s extensive experience in local politics and connections to Nadler position him as a serious contender. Furthermore, the race includes other notable young candidates, among them a Rhodes Scholar and city council members, each of whom brings unique qualifications and perspectives.
As the political landscape evolves, the campaign for Nadler’s successor promises to engage a diverse slate of candidates, showcasing a mix of legacy and new energy in Manhattan politics. The dynamics of the race indicate that voters can expect a lively contest as each candidate seeks to carve out their space and connect with constituents in a rapidly changing political environment.