Cynthia Nixon blasts Cuomo as 'corporate Democrat'

ALBANY - Actress and candidate for governor Cynthia Nixon bashed Gov. Cuomo Friday as a “corporate Democrat” and drew praise from one of the nation’s top Dems.

“The time is up for corporate Democrats, for politicians who campaign as Democrats but govern as Republicans,” Nixon said to a gathering of the Progressive Change Campaign Committee in Washington, D.C.

“It can't just be business as usual anymore,” Nixon said. “I know that our country can do better. We have to turn the system upside down.”

Photos of Cynthia Nixon

Nixon, who is challenging Cuomo for both the Democratic and Working Families Party nominations, attacked Cuomo for “taking charter school hedge fund money and making education policy accordingly.” She vowed to halt the flow of public funds to charter schools.

During her remarks, Nixon also reiterated her support for legalized marijuana, criminal justice reform and a single-payer health care system.

Nixon was followed to the stage by Rep. Keith Ellison, vice chair of the Democratic National Committee, who praised Nixon’s remarks.

“I thought the presentation we just heard was extraordinary,” Ellison said, noting her support for racial justice, marijuana legalization and Medicaid for all.

“It was awesome,” Ellison said.

Cuomo campaign officials did not immediately comment but the governor has previously defended his progressive accomplishments, including the adoption of New York’s marriage equality law and a $15 minimum wage.

A Marist College poll this week showed 68% of registered Democrats supporting Cuomo compared to 21% backing Nixon. Among voters who are highly enthusiastic to participate in the Democratic primary, Nixon received 32% support compared to 60% for Cuomo’s.