Cuomo Ties Crypto AI and Biotech to His NYC Mayoral Run

Andrew Cuomo is reportedly making a political comeback — and this time, crypto and AI are at the center of his campaign. The former New York governor, now running for mayor of New York City, wants to transform the city into what he calls “the global hub of the future.”

Good to Know

• Cuomo aims to unite crypto, AI, and biotech under a single innovation agenda.
• He plans to create a chief innovation officer role and an Innovation Council.
• The council would include advisory groups for each tech sector to guide adoption and workforce growth.

According to journalist Eleanor Terrett, co-host of Crypto in America, Cuomo’s team is building a strategy focused on modernizing how the city works with emerging technology. That includes forming partnerships across blockchain, AI, and biotech sectors to boost investment, attract startups, and generate new jobs.

A central piece of the plan involves creating a chief innovation officer to oversee these efforts. Cuomo also intends to establish an Innovation Council made up of three committees — one each for crypto, AI, and biotech — to advise the city on adoption, workforce training, and regulatory streamlining.

Terrett said these proposals come from sources close to Cuomo’s campaign, suggesting a broad tech-first platform that could reshape New York’s economic direction.

From Crypto Adviser to Policy Architect

Cuomo isn’t new to digital assets. He previously advised crypto exchange OKX during a federal investigation that led to the firm paying over $500 million in fines and penalties. While that connection raised eyebrows at the time, it also gave Cuomo first-hand insight into how crypto regulation operates in practice — experience that could shape how he governs if elected.

If he follows through on these initiatives, New York City could shift from its current enforcement-heavy stance to one that welcomes innovation and supports responsible growth in financial technology.

Adams Leaves, Cuomo Steps In

The race opened up after current mayor Eric Adams ended his re-election campaign last month. Adams had been a visible supporter of blockchain adoption, recently establishing the Office of Digital Assets and Blockchain Technology, the first of its kind in the United States.

In announcing the new office, Adams’ team said it would “promote the responsible use of digital assets and blockchain technologies, grow economic opportunities for New Yorkers, attract world-class talent, and reinforce the city’s standing as the world’s hub for financial and technological innovation.”

With Adams out, Cuomo faces two challengers: Democrat Zohran Mamdani, who has taken a skeptical stance on emerging tech, and Republican Curtis Sliwa. Voters will head to the polls on November 4.

If Cuomo wins and acts on his plans, New York could see a rare alignment between local government and high-growth technology sectors. His strategy promises fewer barriers for startups, new pathways for digital workforce training, and more accessible investment channels for companies working in blockchain, AI, and biotech.

For a city long known for Wall Street, this could mark a shift toward Web3-era finance — one where innovation and regulation work together instead of colliding.

FAQ

What is Cuomo proposing for NYC tech policy?

He wants to create an Innovation Council with advisory committees for crypto, AI, and biotech, led by a new chief innovation officer.

How does Cuomo’s plan differ from Eric Adams’ approach?

Adams established the Office of Digital Assets but focused mainly on blockchain. Cuomo aims to broaden the scope to include AI and biotech as well.

Who is running against Cuomo?

Cuomo faces Zohran Mamdani, who is viewed as anti-tech, and Republican Curtis Sliwa. The election will take place on November 4.

Why is Cuomo linked to crypto already?

He previously advised OKX during a federal probe, giving him insider understanding of digital asset compliance and regulation.