Major Error by NY Lawmaker in Bridge Renaming Creates Uproar

A New York lawmaker’s mistaken blame on Andrew Cuomo in his campaign to revert the Cuomo Bridge name has ignited a wave of controversy.

At a Glance

New York Republican Mike Lawler is campaigning for the Tappan Zee Bridge name restoration.
Lawler erroneously targeted Andrew Cuomo instead of his father, Mario Cuomo.
Lawler’s campaign includes fundraising through “No Cuomo” merchandise.
Critics argue the renaming effort is politically motivated.

Lawmaker’s Campaign Sparks Controversy

Mike Lawler, a New York Republican, is spearheading efforts to revert the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge back to its original name, Tappan Zee Bridge. However, his campaign hit a snag when he mistakenly blamed former Governor Andrew Cuomo for the bridge’s naming, instead of acknowledging it was renamed to honor Mario Cuomo in 2018. Lawler’s campaign includes selling “No Cuomo” hoodies, beer koozies, T-shirts, and mugs in a bid to fundraise and rally support.

Three years ago today, former Governor Cuomo resigned in disgrace. Yet his name is still on the Tappan Zee Bridge! We must rename the bridge – get your No Cuomo merch today! pic.twitter.com/DOzi7Fnqpo

— Mike Lawler (@lawler4ny) August 25, 2024

Lawler previously sponsored a bill in the New York State Assembly aiming to restore the bridge’s original name. This error, however, highlights the critical need for precise research and communication on legislative matters. He argued that Andrew Cuomo unfairly benefits from the name recognition of the bridge. The campaign has received significant backing, with over 90% of respondents in a legislative survey supporting Lawler’s efforts.

🎂🥳🎉 pic.twitter.com/PmGigFmzU6

— Gov. Mario M. Cuomo Bridge (@GMMCB) June 15, 2023

Criticism and Political Implications

Lawler’s re-election race against Democrat Mondaire Jones adds another layer of complexity. Jones criticized Lawler for relying on the name-change issue for political mileage and accused him of dishonesty about the bridge’s namesake. Jones stated, “If Mike Lawler is willing to lie about the name of an iconic bridge with large lettering on it, why should Lower Hudson Valley residents trust him not to vote for a national abortion ban?”

Jones also added that Lawler’s maneuver “speaks to his failure to accomplish anything else to run on during his brief, chaotic time in the MAGA Republican majority.” The fundraising off merchandise featuring a bridge name debate underscores the strategic use of public sentiments in political campaigns.

Today is #DenimDay. We'll illuminate tonight to show support for survivors of sexual violence.

Learn more about Denim Day from @PeaceOvrViolnce: https://t.co/qmTZuTTsHO pic.twitter.com/cwIoZljQQV

— Gov. Mario M. Cuomo Bridge (@GMMCB) April 24, 2024

Efforts for a Compromise

Amidst the controversy, State Assemblyman Tom Abinanti proposed a compromise, suggesting that the name Tappan Zee be added while retaining Mario Cuomo’s name. Abinanti emphasized the importance of the region’s heritage, stating, “We have a heritage here. This is the most visible monument in the area.” The original Tappan Zee Bridge was named to honor both the Native American tribe Tappan and the Dutch word for sea, Zee.

“This is strictly about righting the wrong of this name change, which everyone in the Hudson Valley wants to see happen. it’s nothing personal,” said Skoufis. “This has nothing to do with any animosity or slight towards Mario Cuomo. It just simply has to do with returning the bridge to its rightful name.”

Many residents feel strongly about the name Tappan Zee, reflecting both local heritage and historical significance. While prior Republican-led efforts to revert the name have stalled, the ongoing debate highlights the broader implications of renaming public landmarks, especially when intertwined with political legacies.