Real estate groundbreakings may be less celebrated (photo: governor's office)

In a few short years, real estate money has gone from the norm to “toxic” in New York State Democratic politics, with many of those who once gladly accepted thousands of dollars from the industry now pledging to take none. While there are still exceptions — including notables such as Governor Andrew Cuomo and Brooklyn Borough President and 2021 mayoral candidate Eric Adams — the overall trend is reflected in the recent June primaries for seats in the state

Gov. Cuomo at his State of the State (via The Governor's Office)

Gov. Andrew Cuomo's 2016-2017 budget proposal has legislators and budget experts scratching their heads as to how major capital projects will be paid for, how the state plans to make good on a promise to fund the MTA, and how certain measures might affect funding for New York City. Many are wondering if the governor will keep his pledge that his plan to shift millions in costs for CUNY and Medicaid "won't cost New York City a penny."

These questions linger almost two months