Cuomo Nets McLaughlin Endorsement

Andrew Cuomo’s nascent bid to become the state’s next attorney general picked up steam and a big union endorsement Monday.
Cuomo, 47, the former secretary of Housing and Urban Development and son of former Governor Mario Cuomo, met with Central Labor Council president and Assemblyman Brian McLaughlin in Albany to receive his nod for the 2006 race to replace Eliot Spitzer as the state’s top watchdog.
“I have known Andrew Cuomo for over 20 years,” McLaughlin said. “We started as two boys from Queens, both from idealistic backgrounds, sharing the same values… and fighting the same fight for working families. We have history together — one of mutual respect and admiration.”
McLaughlin also expressed his belief that an early endorsement in a race that is more than 15 months away is important to reunite fractured Democrats in the state.
“Uniting behind one strong candidate helps to strengthen the chances of Democrats seeking elective office throughout the state,” McLaughlin said. “The only way to match the Republicans and their dollars is by concentrating our efforts and resources, with an early endorsement of the best candidate. Andrew Cuomo is that candidate.”
“The Assemblyman’s early backing in this race means a great deal to me,” Cuomo said. “Brian has always been a champion for the causes of working families across the state and he is an outstanding example of effective state leadership. Together we will continue to fight for justice for all New Yorkers.”
editrich@queenscourier.com