48 CityAndStateNY.com
August 16, 2021
Fernando Ferrer opines on the nature of power The former Bronx borough president weighed in on City & State’s lists and New York’s biggest political players of the past five years.
By Ralph R. Ortega
So, the last time we spoke, you said to me, “Oh and by the way Ralph, if you
ever do a 70 Over 70 list, I’m going to come down there and kick your ass!” I know you were joking. But why do you think people clamor to be on City & State’s lists? Well, I think for a large number of people who are named on these lists, it’s meaningful. It’s an affirmation of their work. Do you know how many times you’ve been on these lists? No, I haven’t counted. A couple times? I don’t know. I would not like to see myself on any list. I’m a demure kind of guy. But I know some people consider it a blessing. I consider it a mixed blessing. The lists are about people with power. How do you define power?
That’s a very interesting thing. The traditional definition is to get someone to do something they wouldn’t normally do or could not easily have done. We certainly have witnessed abuses of power recently … I knew you would try to dance me in this direction. I feel horrible for (Cuomo’s) mother. I know her. She’s a terrific woman. I just feel horrible. You know, but all the other stuff I never witnessed anything so I’m not in a position to judge. What message does Cuomo’s plight send about power these days? Well, more than 20 years ago the news of Monica Lewinsky broke on the front pages, you know, this isn’t new.
PATRICK CASHIN/MTA
F
ERNANDO FERRER WAS Bronx borough president from 1987 to 2001, the year he also launched the first of two unsuccessful runs for New York City mayor. Ferrer also served three stints as acting chair of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority for Gov. Andrew Cuomo. City & State caught up with Ferrer for its 15th anniversary issue just days before Cuomo announced his resignation in light of the sexual harassment allegations investigated by state Attorney General Letitia James. Ferrer spoke about City & State’s lists and how he perceives power. He tried to skirt around talking about Cuomo while speaking about other powerful political players from the past five years. This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
