Cuomo Reverses Policy as Inauguration Approaches

by mcardinal

Michael Cardinal, FISM News

 

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo caught many by surprise in what appears to be a reversal of policy, urging the relaxation of New York’s strict shutdowns and a reopening of the economy.

In a tweet on Monday, Cuomo said that New York businesses “simply cannot stay closed” and that, if shut-downs continue, there will be “nothing left to open.”

Throughout the pandemic, New York has enforced some of the strictest COVID-19 regulations in the country and Cuomo has continually been a strong proponent of strict measures in combating the virus. This sudden about-face in policy comes in the midst of a spike in COVID cases, leaving many to wonder “why now?”

Cuomo assuredly has a lot to gain by lifting regulations as the state’s economy posted it’s largest deficit of all time. New York follows only Washington D.C. with the highest percentage of people leaving the state, motivated by high taxes and the loss of jobs. Cuomo is also the focus of a law-suit from 70 New-York based restaurants due to his overreaching restrictions on their businesses.

The timing of Cuomo’s change of heart is in question as it comes only days before Biden’s inauguration. This has many speculating that the true motivation for the change may be politically motivated.

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