DOJ Opens Criminal Probe into Cuomo Over Nursing Home Deaths

The Justice Department has launched a criminal investigation into former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, focusing on allegations that he misled Congress about nursing home deaths during the COVID-19 pandemic. The inquiry follows a formal request from the House Oversight Committee, chaired by Republican James Comer. According to the New York Times, the investigation began a month ago under the US Attorney's Office in Washington, D.C. At issue is a March 2020 directive that required nursing homes to accept COVID-positive patients without testing. While the state's final report cited 6,432 deaths, internal notes suggest Cuomo was aware of a significantly higher number. Cuomo, currently a mayoral candidate in New York City, denies undercounting deaths and maintains that the state followed federal guidelines. However, family advocates of those who perished in nursing homes dispute this claim. The investigation's timing is particularly notable, coinciding with the release of a Cuomo campaign ad promoting his pandemic response. The unfolding probe raises questions about Cuomo's handling of the pandemic and his political future. "The wheels of justice are finally beginning to turn," said Vivian Diaz of Voices for Seniors, highlighting the emotional weight of the situation for those affected.