Press Releases

Key Clergy from Across Queens Endorse Andrew Cuomo for Mayor

Assemblywoman Vivian Cook Joins Leading Faith Leaders in Support of Cuomo’s Campaign for a Safer, More Affordable New York City

Queens, NY — In a powerful show of support from faith leaders in his home borough, top ministers from across Queens today endorsed Andrew M. Cuomo for Mayor of New York City. The event was attended by longtime Cuomo supporter, Assemblywoman Vivian Cook, who joined clergy in praising Cuomo’s record of fighting for working families and the underserved.

“I am deeply honored to receive the support of so many respected ministers and faith leaders from Queens — the borough where I was born and raised,” Andrew Cuomo said. “Their leadership has always been about serving the community, uplifting families, and standing with those in need. I look forward to working alongside them as Mayor to deliver what New Yorkers urgently deserve: a city that is safer, more affordable, and fairer for all.”

Pastor Akim Beecham, Maranatha Baptist Church:
“As a pastor, my calling is to stand with leaders who not only talk about serving the people but have shown, through their actions, that they can lead in times of crisis. Andrew Cuomo has the experience, the resilience, and the heart for New Yorkers. He led this state through some of its darkest days, and I believe he has the strength to guide us forward again. That’s why I proudly stand with Andrew Cuomo.”

Pastor Dr. Francko Harris, Mount Olivet Baptist Church:
“Five years ago, I was filled with fear and apprehension about COVID-19. However, each morning, I was greeted by Governor Andrew Cuomo on my television, who brought me comfort and peace during a challenging time. I am thrilled to know that the same person who guided me through the COVID-19 pandemic is now poised to lead New York into its new era of rebirth and revitalization.”

Pastor Robert Lowe, Mount Moriah A.M.E.:
“Our community needs a leader who understands our struggles and has the courage to act. Andrew Cuomo has already proven he can deliver for New Yorkers, and he has never shied away from tough decisions. We know he will add to the Cambria Heights community and Southeast Queens as a whole. That is why I proudly endorse him.”

Bishop Calvin Rice, New Jerusalem:
“As one of the longest-standing bishops in Southeast Queens, I have witnessed many leaders come and go. What our community needs is proven leadership — not slogans, but action. Andrew Cuomo has shown he can deliver in the hardest of times and bring real resources to our neighborhoods. I believe he will uplift Southeast Queens and all of New York City, and I am proud to stand with him.”

Pastor Victor Hall, Calvary Baptist Church:
“In Southeast Queens, we know the difference between talk and action. Andrew Cuomo has proven that he can lead with strength and deliver real results for our communities. I believe he will continue to fight for families, small businesses, and our neighborhoods. That’s why I proudly endorse Andrew Cuomo to move this city forward.”

Today’s endorsements include:

  • Pastor Carlton Mobley — Ambassadors Baptist Church
  • Pastor Gilbert Pickett — Mount Horeb Baptist Church
  • Pastor Wilbert Ingram — Tiberian Baptist Church
  • Pastor Evan Gray — Macedonia Baptist Church (Far Rockaway)
  • Pastor Patrick Young — First Baptist Church East Elmhurst
  • Pastor Akim Beecham — Maranatha Baptist Church
  • Bishop Calvin Rice — New Jerusalem
  • Pastor Francko Harris — Mount Olivet Baptist Church
  • Pastor Isaiah Holland — Good News Baptist Church
  • Pastor Victor Hall — Calvary Baptist Church
  • Pastor Darryl Frazier — Majority Baptist Church
  • Pastor William Armstrong — First Church of God and Christ
  • Deacon Jenkins — Merrick Park Baptist Church
  • Pastor John Boyd — New Greater Bethel Ministries
  • Pastor Robert Lowe — Mount Moriah A.M.E.
  • Pastor Phil Craig — Greater Springfield Community Church
     

Throughout his career, Cuomo has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to those too often left behind. In his 20s, he founded one of the nation’s largest providers of housing and services for the homeless. In his 30s, he served as U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, fighting for underserved communities and building housing nationwide. As Governor, he raised New York’s minimum wage to $15/hour, established the strongest paid family leave program in the nation, enacted some of the nation’s toughest gun violence prevention reforms, and repeatedly delivered for the people whose lives and livelihoods matter most.

The ministers join a growing coalition of clergy, community leaders, labor, and civic organizations backing Cuomo’s campaign — underscoring his record of results and his readiness to lead on day one.

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