More potential challengers to Cuomo emerge

In New York state government news, the field of possible candidates willing to take on Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo is growing and a new report is adding up the costs of the state’s nuclear power bailout.

A look at stories making news:

CUOMO CHALLENGERS

More names are popping up as possible candidates to challenge Gov. Andrew Cuomo next year.

State Senate Deputy Majority Leader John DeFrancisco, a Syracuse Republican, said he’s meeting with Republican groups around the state as he mulls a run for governor.

“I think it’s just prudent to go around and see what level of support there is,” he told The Auburn Citizen. “And if there is, then I’ll seriously consider it.”

Meanwhile, on the Democratic side, former state Sen. Terry Gipson says he’s considering a primary challenge against Cuomo.

And Syracuse Mayor Stephanie Miner, a leading critic of Cuomo, says she’s been approached by people wondering if she will run. “Sex & the City” actress Cynthia Nixon is also being talked about as a possible Democratic candidate.

Other Republicans mentioned as potential contenders include Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro, former investment manager and 2010 comptroller candidate Harry Wilson and Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino, who went up against Cuomo in 2014.

Cuomo himself has been touted as a possible White House candidate in 2020 but insists he’s focused on running the state — and winning a third term in 2018.

BAILOUT BIRTHDAY

Critics of New York state’s plan to bail out aging nuclear plants upstate say it’s already cost New Yorkers an estimated $163 million in their utility bills.