Singer-songwriter Billy Joel has donated $50,000 to a Super PAC supporting former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo’s campaign for New York City mayor, reigniting controversy over Cuomo’s political comeback.
The donation, made through the “William M. Joel Revocable Trust,” was disclosed in filings with the New York State Board of Elections. The PAC, “Fix The City,” is backing Cuomo as he seeks a return to public office after resigning in disgrace in 2021. Cuomo is the godfather of one of Joel’s daughters and has maintained a close friendship with the musician.
Joel, 75, no longer resides full-time in New York, having shifted to Florida. Last year, he commented humorously about the move, saying, “I’ll be spending more time in Florida like old Jewish guys from Long Island do.” Critics have pointed out the irony of Joel backing a New York mayoral candidate while living out of state.
New York State Conservative Party Chairman Gerard Kassar criticized the donation, highlighting Cuomo’s checkered history. “It’s very unfortunate that celebrities have decided to overlook the failures of Cuomo’s governorship,” Kassar stated. He referenced Cuomo’s controversial decision to write a pandemic memoir using state employees, a move that earned the former governor over $5 million while the state faced immense challenges.
Cuomo’s political downfall began with the revelation that he had sexually harassed multiple women during his tenure. He resigned after an investigation by the New York Attorney General confirmed the accusations. Cuomo has since attempted to reframe his behavior as part of his “cultural” background, drawing widespread backlash from Italian Americans who viewed the excuse as offensive.
Billy Joel has previously hosted political fundraisers for Cuomo and was one of the first guests on Cuomo’s podcast following his resignation. The donation raises concerns among critics who say celebrity endorsements and financial backing may help whitewash Cuomo’s record rather than hold him accountable.
