Governor is as high as you're going, Andrew.
Congrats to Working Families Party (and now Democratic) nominee Andrew Cuomo for squeezing out 61 percent of the vote in last night's Democratic gubernatorial primary and avoiding the terminal embarrassment of being stuck in the 50s. Of course, he suffered the terminal embarrassment of only getting 61 percent of the vote against a no-name candidate who waged a no-money late-starting primary challenge, and spending an astonishing
$20 million to get there.
Cuomo spent $60.62 for each of his votes. [Zephyr] Teachout spent $1.57.
It's expensive for Cuomo to buy any love. He's not getting any on the force of his personality, or his policies, or his record on corruption. Heck, he had an easier time getting the Working Families Party endorsement. While the margin of victory was almost identical (
59-41), he didn't have to spend any money. Just crack a few skulls, twist a few arms.
In any case, Cuomo's entire presidential strategy was predicated on racking up big wins in both the primary and general election. He already underperfomed in the primary, despite his daddy's hallowed name and gazillions. He'll underperform in the general. So a national presidential campaign, against real opponents with just as much money and stronger records of being, you know, actual Democrats? Even his daddy's last name won't do him much good.
Finally, look at all that discontent. Teachout got over a third of the vote despite having none of Cuomo's advantages. Imagine if the Working Families Party had fielded a credible candidate, with the full-length of the campaign season to mount a campaign. Polls earlier this year showed Cuomo vulnerable to such a challenge. He looks even more vulnerable today. They could've seriously threatened Cuomo's re-election. Oh well. Water under the bridge.
It's now Gov. Andrew Cuomo (WFP, D). I'm sure they're brimming with pride.
Update: Nevermind that kudos for hitting 60 percent.