NYC MAYOR BILL DE BLASIO:

“Tonight, New York has lost a giant. Mario Cuomo was a man of unwavering principle who possessed a compassion for humankind that was without equal.

“He established the gold standard in New York State for how public servants should act, and set an example that the rest of us continue to aspire to today.

“He was a man who campaigned with poetry and governed with beautiful prose. He was a man who always stood for what he believed in, no matter what challenges were before him. He taught us how the family of New York—and indeed the family of Americans—must always support those most in need of help. And he was a leader who always brought New York State to a better place.

“As he would often remind us, the state’s motto was ‘Excelsior’ or ‘Ever Upward.’ Mario Cuomo personified the idea of New York, always urging us to look ‘ever upward.’ Excelsior, Governor Cuomo. We will never forget his legacy.

“On behalf of the people of New York City and my family, our thoughts and prayers are with Matilda Cuomo, Governor Cuomo, and the entire Cuomo family.”

U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer:

“From the hard streets of Queens, Mario Cuomo rose to the very pinnacle of political power in New York because he believed in his bones in the greatness of this state, the greatness of America and the unique potential of every individual. From soaring oratory that stirred the very soul to painstaking coalition building to advance policies and accomplishments, he was a colossal political mind and represented the very best of public service; he leaves an indelible legacy on the state he loved. My prayers and thoughts are with the Governor, the whole Cuomo family, and all who knew and loved Mario. Our hearts go out to Governor Andrew Cuomo who gave a great speech today that I am certain his father was proud of.”

Brooklyn District Attorney Ken Thompson:

“Tonight I join with people throughout our state and country to offer my deep condolences to Governor Andrew Cuomo and his family on the passing of his father, Governor Mario Cuomo, who worked tirelessly to improve the lives of all New Yorkers and extended a hand to those most in need. Governor Mario Cuomo has left a legacy of outstanding public service and a record of great accomplishments. He truly will be missed.”

Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman:

“Today is a sad day for all New Yorkers. In addition to being one of our state’s truly great governors, he was an inspiration for generations of New Yorkers who answered the call to service in response to his vision of fairness and equality for all of us. I would not be involved in New York politics were it not for Mario Cuomo. He is, and will always remain, one of my heroes. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. I hope that they will take comfort in the fact that he will be missed and mourned by millions, including the countless New Yorkers whose lives he forever bettered.”

(YWN Desk – NYC)