Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has unexpectedly criticized Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s decision to investigate former President Donald Trump. In an op-ed in The Albany Times Union, Cuomo blasted the move as “political theater” and a waste of taxpayer money.
Bragg, who took office on January 1, has announced that his office will investigate Trump’s business practices in New York City, including possible tax and insurance fraud. The move has been praised by some as a long-overdue reckoning for a man who has flouted the law for decades, while others argue that it is politically motivated and a distraction from more pressing issues facing the city.
Cuomo, who resigned from office in August amid a sexual harassment scandal, was an outspoken critic of Trump during his time as governor. However, in his op-ed, he argues that Bragg’s Trump probe is a “waste of precious resources” that should be focused on tackling crime and improving public safety.
“Regardless of your personal opinion of Donald Trump, this is not the type of investigation that should be a top priority for the Manhattan DA’s office,” he writes. “We have much more pressing issues to address, such as the surge in crime that has plagued our city in recent years.”
Cuomo’s criticism of Bragg’s probe is surprising given his previous statements about Trump. During his time in office, he frequently clashed with the former president on issues ranging from immigration to climate change. He was also vocal in his support for investigations into Trump’s finances and alleged misconduct.
However, some observers have suggested that Cuomo’s comments may be more about positioning himself for a potential comeback than genuine concern for public safety. Cuomo has reportedly been exploring the possibility of running for governor again in 2022, and distancing himself from progressive prosecutors like Bragg may be a way to appeal to more moderate voters.
Regardless of his motives, Cuomo’s comments are likely to be seen as a rebuke to the progressive wing of the Democratic Party, which has been pushing for more aggressive investigations into Trump’s activities in New York. Some activists have criticized Bragg for not being bold enough in his approach to the case, arguing that he should be seeking to indict Trump rather than merely investigating him.
For his part, Bragg has defended his decision, arguing that it is his duty as the top prosecutor in Manhattan to hold powerful people accountable. “As district attorney, I am responsible for enforcing the law without fear or favor, no matter who the defendant is,” he said in a statement. “This office will continue to do its job and follow the evidence wherever it leads.”
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