Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo is currently under investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) for allegedly providing false testimony to Congress regarding his administration's handling of COVID-19-related nursing home deaths. The inquiry, led by the U.S. Attorney's Office in Washington, D.C., follows a criminal referral from Republican lawmakers who accuse Cuomo of misleading statements during a 2024 congressional hearing.

At the center of the investigation is a 2020 state report that purportedly undercounted nursing home fatalities during the pandemic. Cuomo had denied direct involvement in drafting the report; however, evidence, including emails and handwritten notes, suggests he contributed to early versions. Cuomo's spokesperson, Rich Azzopardi, has dismissed the investigation as politically motivated, labeling it "lawfare" and "election interference." He emphasized that Cuomo has not been contacted by law enforcement regarding the matter.

The probe emerges as Cuomo campaigns for the Democratic nomination in the upcoming New York City mayoral race, where he is considered a leading candidate. The timing of the investigation has raised concerns about potential political motivations, especially given the DOJ's recent decision to drop corruption charges against current Mayor Eric Adams, who is running for re-election as an independent.

Critics argue that the DOJ's actions could undermine public trust in the impartiality of federal investigations, particularly when they coincide with electoral campaigns. Supporters of the investigation contend that accountability for pandemic-related decisions is essential, regardless of political considerations. The outcome of this investigation could have significant implications for Cuomo's political future and the broader discourse on governmental transparency and accountability during public health crises.