Overview

• In a New York Times Q&A on June 3, Cuomo described his breakfast as a “bacon, cheese and egg” sandwich on an English muffin rather than a bagel, reversing the traditional ingredient order
• Social media users quickly seized on the mistake to mock Cuomo’s grasp of New York bagel culture, contesting his authenticity as a city resident
• Some critics noted his long absence from New York City, warning that misreading a local staple undercuts his appeal among core voters
• Commenters revived scrutiny of his tenure as governor, citing allegations of sexual harassment with controversy over his pandemic policies
• Political analysts suggest the gaffe could dent Cuomo’s standing in the June 24 mayoral primary by reinforcing doubts about his cultural fluency