(The Center Square)–Former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo is pitching plans to raise New York City’s minimum wages as he runs for mayor, despite blocking similar efforts when he was governor.
Cuomo announced on Wednesday that if elected mayor he would push to raise the minimum wage to $20 per hour by 2027, which would impact about 800,000 workers who qualify. It would also move to best in the country ahead of the District of Columbia’s $17.50.
The minimum wage is $16.50 per hour in New York City, Westchester and Long Island. The federal rate of $7.25 has been in place since 2009 and in 20 states is either applied because there is no state minimum or is the rate.
“New York City needs to be a place where working families can afford to live and thrive and right now that’s out of reach for far too many in what is supposed to be the greatest city in the world,” Cuomo, a Democrat, said in a statement. “When we say opportunity for all, we mean opportunity for all. We must take action.”
To ease the impact on businesses from a $20 per hour wage, Cuomo is proposing a Small Business Adjustment Tax Credit to ease the financial pressure on employers with 10 or fewer full-time employees.
Eligible employers would receive a refundable credit covering up to 30% of the incremental wage increase per employee, with the credit amount gradually decreasing each year as businesses adjust, according to his campaign, which cited a similar move when he was governor.
“It is an aggressive, progressive action that will help hourly workers and stimulate the economy,” Cuomo said. “If you work full time, you should have the opportunity to live a decent life.”
Cuomo’s proposal, which would require approval from the state Legislature, drew praise from representatives of New York City’s labor unions who said wage workers are struggling to stay afloat amid the Big Apple’s high cost of living.
“No one should have to choose between paying rent or putting food on the table – but hundreds of thousands do, every single day,” Rob Newell, president of UFCW Local 1500, said in a statement. “And unless government steps up, millions more will face that same impossible choice.”
In 2016, Cuomo signed legislation to raise the state’s minimum wage to $15, making New York one of the first states to reach that level.
Still, Cuomo blocked efforts by then-Mayor Bill De Blasio in 2014 to allow New York City to set its own wage standards and tie increases to inflation. At the time he said allowing New York City and other local governments to set their own wage and tax rules would create a “chaotic” mix of policies.
Cuomo is leading a crowded field of Democratic candidates vying to challenge embattled New York City Mayor Eric Adams in the June 24 primary. Adams is running for reelection as an independent.
His closest rival in the polls – state Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani, a self-proclaimed democratic socialist – has called for an even higher minimum wage in New York City, or $30 by 2030. To offset the impact, Mamdani said he wants to cut fines and fees on small businesses.
Three Reasons a Coffee Gift Set From This Christian Company Is Perfect for Christmas
When you’re searching for a Christmas gift that’s meaningful, useful, and rooted in faith, you don’t want to settle for anything generic. This season is filled with noise — mass-produced products, last-minute picks, and trends that fade as quickly as they appear. But one gift stands apart because it blends genuine quality with a message that matters: a coffee gift set from Promised Grounds Coffee.
This small Christian-owned company has become a favorite among believers who want to support faith-driven businesses while giving friends and family something they’ll actually enjoy. Here are three reasons a Promised Grounds Coffee gift set may be the most thoughtful and impactful present you give this year.
1. It’s Truly Delicious Coffee
Too many “gift-worthy” coffees look beautiful in the package but disappoint when the cup is poured. Promised Grounds takes the opposite approach — exceptional taste first, thoughtful presentation second.
Their beans are sourced with care, roasted in small batches, and crafted to bring out a rich, smooth flavor profile that appeals to both casual drinkers and true coffee lovers. Whether someone enjoys bold, dark roasts or lighter, more delicate blends, every sip reflects quality that stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the biggest specialty brands.
Simply put: this coffee is good. Really good. Some say it’s absolutely fantastic. If you want a gift that won’t be re-gifted, ignored, or shoved in a cabinet, this is it.
2. It Spreads the Word While Serving a Real Purpose
There are many Christian gifts that are meaningful… but not exactly practical. There are also useful gifts that have nothing to do with faith. Promised Grounds Coffee bridges both worlds beautifully.
Each gift set delivers an encouraging, faith-centered message through its packaging and presentation — a simple but powerful reminder of God’s goodness during the Christmas season. The cups are especially popular and serve as a daily reminder of the blessings from our Lord. At the same time, the product itself is something people will actually use and appreciate every single day.
It’s a gift that uplifts the spirit and fills the mug. A gift that points loved ones toward Scripture while still being part of the normal rhythm of life. And in a culture that increasingly pushes faith to the margins, giving a gift that quietly but confidently honors Christ can make a deeper impact than you might expect.
3. It’s Affordable, Valuable, and Elegantly Presented
Many people want to give something meaningful without breaking their Christmas budget. Promised Grounds Coffee strikes that perfect balance — the sets look and feel premium, but the price remains accessible.
The packaging is classy, clean, and gift-ready, making it ideal for:
- Family members of all ages
- Co-workers or employees
- Church friends or small-group leaders
- Hosts, neighbors, and last-minute gift needs
It’s the kind of gift that feels more expensive than it is — and more thoughtful than most of what you’ll find on store shelves.
The Perfect Blend of Faith, Flavor, and Christmas Cheer
A coffee gift set from Promised Grounds Coffee checks every box: a gift that tastes amazing, conveys your faith, supports a Christian business, and brings daily enjoyment to the person who receives it. In a season when so many gifts are forgotten, this one stands out for all the right reasons.
If you want a Christmas present that reflects your values and delivers genuine joy, Promised Grounds Coffee is the perfect place to start.
Why isn’t this asshole in prison for all the elderly people he sent to their deaths. Can’t stand looking at this lying slob.