Mario Cuomo: New York Leaders React to the Passing of the Former Governor

The passing of former Gov. Mario Cuomo has touched the hearts of countless New Yorkers and people throughout the nation.

Below are some of the tributes to the man from area and national political leaders. Additionally, the show “Capital Tonight” on Time Warner Cable, will broadcast a Cuomo retrospective Friday evening at 8 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. Check your local listings for channel information.

Congresswoman Nita M. Lowey (D-Westchester/Rockland), the Ranking Member on the House Appropriations Committee: “I am deeply saddened by the passing of Mario Cuomo, a friend for more than 40 years and an inspiration to me throughout my years in public service. I worked closely with him during the four years he served as Secretary of State.

“Elected governor for three terms, Mario Cuomo led a revival of New York’s economy and increased services to children and families throughout the state.

“New Yorkers are fortunate that, while we mourn the loss of a truly great governor, we can be assured that his legacy will continue with the dedicated leadership of Governor Andrew Cuomo.”

U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand: “I am deeply saddened to learn about the passing of former Governor Mario Cuomo. His outstanding service to our state and his commitment to the ideals that founded our nation inspired a new generation to devote their lives to public service.

“I learned from Governor Cuomo’s example, and his extraordinary legacy will continue to guide my own work on behalf of New Yorkers. I will always be grateful for his wisdom and generosity.

“Governor Cuomo will be remembered as one of the great, inspirational leaders of our time. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Cuomo family.”

Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino: “I join with all New Yorkers in mourning the loss of former Governor Mario Cuomo. He will forever be remembered for his love of our great state, his immense talent as a gifted orator and as the proud son of Italian immigrants. He was a man of integrity and faith who worked every day to improve the lives of all New Yorkers. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Cuomo family during this difficult time.”

Rockland County Executive Ed Day: “Governor Mario Cuomo left an indelible mark on the state he so loved. He served with confidence, foresight and integrity, always putting New York first. On behalf of every Rockland County resident, I extend my deepest sympathy to the entire Cuomo family. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this most difficult time.”

State Sen. David Carlucci (D-Rockland/Westchester), Chair of Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Committee: “My thoughts and prayers are with Governor Cuomo and his family during this difficult time. Former Governor Mario Cuomo was a great leader who fought for the rights of individuals with mental illness and developmental disabilities. By working together he showed true compassion and laid the framework for deinstitutionation to a more integrated community based system which improved countless lives in the process.”

State Senator Terrence Murphy: “By word and deed, Mario Cuomo touched the lives of all New Yorkers. He spoke to our hearts and minds in words that will be preserved and forever etched into our cultural memory.”

“Mario Cuomo’s legacy of selfless service will certainly withstand the test of time. My heart goes out to Governor Cuomo and his family on the passing of this giant of public service.”

Greenburgh Town Supervisor Paul Feiner: The town of Greenburgh joins millions of people around the world in mourning the passing of former Governor Mario Cuomo.

The Governor, known for his oratory and inspirational speeches, helped the town of Greenburgh keep a major employer in Greenburgh during his tenure as Governor. Governor Cuomo spoke at a press conference at Town Hall highlighting initiatives being taken to keep CIBA in Greenburgh. Without the Governor’s intervention the company probably would have moved out of state.

This success story helped our local economy, provided needed employment for many and motivated other bio tech companies to eventually locate to Greenburgh. Our town is now considered one of the leading bio tech locations in NYS: http://www.nytimes.com/1994/06/16/nyregion/ciba-corp-decides-to-keep-its-us-headquarters-in-the-county.html

Photo: Former Gov. Mario Cuomo. Photo credit: PBS