Humiliation.
Given the myth that Cuomo has cultivated about his COVID leadership, this is like Churchill being stripped of his war powers in 1942. It’s going to make for an amazing chapter in the sequel to his “How I Saved America from the Coronavirus” book, no? Serious question: Does this move happen if not for Cuomo’s sexual harassment scandal? Lawmakers were discussing it a few weeks ago after the news broke about his nursing-home cover-up, but remember that both chambers of the state legislature are controlled by Democrats. It’s no easy thing to come after a governor from your own party, especially when his approval rating remains basically solid. The sex scandal may have been the final nudge legislators needed to pull the trap door on him, believing that if he isn’t unpopular already among New York’s voters, he will be soon. From now on, King Andrew answers to the people. In theory. ✅ Limit any further modifications to directives to that which is necessary to reduce the spread or increase vaccinations✅ Restore the right of counties and municipalities to issue executive orders without seeking state approval Carrie Woerner (@AMCarrieWoerner) March 2, 2021 The last bit is the key, if I’m understanding the new scheme correctly. From now on, new pandemic controls will be handed down locally, not from on high in Albany. Cuomo’s existing orders do remain in effect temporarily, and he can modify them as necessary — but only with input from the legislature: The legislation will allow current public health directives to stay in place for 30 days following the passing of the legislation. These directives deal with controlling the spread of COVID-19, vaccination efforts and wearing a face covering. The directives can still be extended or modified but certain steps need to take place in order to do so.
