New York mayor candidate Cuomo pledges crypto innovation with new role

Andrew Cuomo, an independent candidate for mayor of New York City, announced Sunday that his administration would create the role of Chief Innovation Officer to lead blockchain and crypto innovation in the city.

Cuomo said the role, a senior administration position, would work to guarantee that the city supports emerging industries and fosters public-private collaboration by utilizing new technologies.

"The next Mayor must make sure we're [leading] in the technologies that will define the next century — AI, blockchain, and biotech," Cuomo said. 

The main tasks of the role involve securing investments and jobs from high-growth industries and innovating the city public services to become more efficient and equipped with new technologies.

The Chief Innovation Officer will be appointed in consultation with an innovation council that consists of leaders of the three emerging technologies. The council will continue to work with the officer after the appointment. 

Regarding crypto and blockchain, the council aims to establish New York as the "world capital" for digital finance and decentralized innovation, according to the announcement.

"This includes exploring ways to replace outdated regulations with a modern framework that protects consumers and encourages responsible innovation," the announcement noted.

Current New York Mayor Eric Adams has been pushing for blockchain and digital asset innovation, notably spearheading the city's first crypto summit . Last week, Adams signed an executive order creating an office focused on digital assets and blockchain. 

Adams is scheduled to complete his term on Jan. 1, 2026. The next Mayor, who will be elected in the upcoming general election on Nov. 4, 2025, will assume office on that date.