Andrew Cuomo is kicking off his second term as New York's governor, saying he was doing so "at a uniquely New York moment" when some things seem at their worst. Speaking at the World Trade Center, Cuomo said he was fine with that because New York is at its best when things are at their worst. He promised that whether it's economic and racial equality or the quest for better education, New York will lead the nation by example.
He said he was beginning another four years in office during "troubled times" when people were questioning whether the country's economic system and justice system are fair.
He said police officers need more safety and protection after two New York City police officers last month were "assassinated" in their patrol car.
But he added: "The truth is law enforcement needs to respect the community as much as the community needs to respect law enforcement."
Cuomo also mentioned the death of Eric Garner, who was taken to the ground in the grasp of a police officer on a Staten Island sidewalk.
Citing national unrest, he said the worst problems New Yorkers face go beyond state borders because people doubted that fairness and opportunity still exists.
"Economic numbers are going up and up, but we work harder and make less," he said. "While American capitalism never guaranteed success, it did guarantee opportunity."
He promised that whether it's economic and racial equality or the quest for better education, New York will lead the nation by example.
Later Thursday, Cuomo and Hochul held a second inaugural ceremony at the Buffalo History Museum. Cuomo said he was glad to be back in Buffalo, describing it as his "second home." In his Buffalo speech, he touted Buffalo's resurgence, giving credit to the city's leadership for making it happen.
Outside the museum, dozens of protesters gathered to voice their opposition to Cuomo's education policies and the gun control law known as the SAFE Act.