In a dramatic twist that could reshape New York's political landscape, former Governor Andrew Cuomo is reportedly considering a return to Washington just days after suffering a humiliating defeat in his mayoral bid. The potential move sets the stage for an explosive showdown with President John F. Kennedy's grandson, Jack Schlossberg, for a soon-to-be-vacant congressional seat.
The Comeback Contender
According to multiple sources speaking to the Jewish Insider, Cuomo is quietly exploring a run for Representative Jerry Nadler's congressional seat. The political rumour mill began churning on Saturday when reporter Matthew Kassel revealed that several insiders had confirmed Cuomo's interest in the position after his failed attempt to become New York City's next mayor.
The former three-term governor's political future came into question after his stunning defeat by 34-year-old Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani, a leftist candidate who campaigned on platforms of affordable housing, police reform and universal public childcare. Cuomo had entered the mayoral race in March, less than four years after resigning from the governorship amid sexual harassment allegations that he continues to deny.
The Kennedy Heir Apparent
Cuomo wouldn't have the political field to himself if he decides to run. Jack Schlossberg, the 32-year-old only grandson of President John F. Kennedy, has already formed an exploratory committee and is expected to announce his campaign for Nadler's seat next week, according to Politico.
'It's happening,' one source told the publication, noting that Schlossberg had already begun hiring staff and consulting with elected officials. The Harvard and Yale graduate has built an enormous social media following with hundreds of thousands of fans across TikTok, Instagram, and X.
Unlike the traditional, buttoned-up image associated with previous Kennedys, Schlossberg has cultivated a modern political persona through quirky and self-deprecating clips that blend politics with his distinctive humour. While celebrated online as a liberal heartthrob, he has also been active in progressive politics, speaking at the 2024 Democratic National Convention and frequently criticising his cousin Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
The Battle for a Safe Seat
The congressional seat in question has been held by Democrat Jerry Nadler for more than three decades. The 78-year-old representative announced he would retire after 34 years in Congress, creating a rare vacancy in what has historically been a safe Democratic seat.
Nadler offered a measured response when asked about his potential successor last month, stating: 'There's nothing particularly good or bad about a Kennedy holding my seat.' However, he added that 'the Kennedy, unlike Schlossberg, should be somebody with a record of public service, a record of public accomplishment, and he doesn't have one.'
The future of the seat will likely be determined in the Democratic primary scheduled for June 23, 2026, setting the stage for what promises to be a closely watched political contest between established power and emerging political royalty.
Schlossberg, the son of Caroline Kennedy and the only grandson of JFK, represents the next generation of America's most famous political dynasty. His mother was just five years old when her father was assassinated in 1963, adding historical weight to his potential candidacy.
Cuomo's spokesperson Rich Azzopardi responded to the speculation with characteristic bluntness, telling the Daily Mail: 'I don't know where any of that came from, but everyone should put down the mojitos.' Despite this dismissal, political observers continue to watch developments closely as both potential candidates position themselves for what could be one of the most dramatic congressional races in recent memory.
