Could you imagine if the world of politics was filled with prank calls and practical jokes? According to an upcoming book by Melissa DeRosa, the former top aide to Governor Andrew Cuomo, there was a moment when New York Governor Cuomo and former President Donald Trump contemplated pranking Chris Cuomo, the former CNN anchor and the Governor’s younger brother. In her memoir, “What’s Left Unsaid: My Life at the Center of Power, Politics & Crisis,” DeRosa reveals an intriguing incident that took place in the White House.
DeRosa recounts an interesting encounter during a White House meeting between Governor Cuomo and President Trump. As the two powerful figures sat down to have a meal, Trump suggested the idea of prank-calling Chris Cuomo. Curiosity piqued, Trump picked up the phone, ready to dial the CNN anchor’s number. However, Cuomo appeared bewildered, unsure of his brother’s contact information. Undeterred, Trump persisted, urging Cuomo to disclose Chris’s number. The former president found the potential prank call highly amusing, and it took some convincing from Cuomo’s end to focus their attention on their food.
It seems that the prank call was destined to remain a hypothetical scenario. Security protocols required Cuomo to surrender his phone, leaving him unable to facilitate such a call. In an attempt to evade the situation, Cuomo repeatedly claimed that Chris was busy at the moment but offered to pass along a message. A disappointed Trump insisted that a prank call would have been hilarious, while continuing to enjoy their meal. As DeRosa reflects on the incident, she describes feeling like she was having an out-of-body experience, witnessing the interplay between these influential personalities.
This meeting between Cuomo and Trump took place in Washington, DC, with Cuomo seeking federal assistance for infrastructure funding in the aftermath of the COVID-19 crisis. It is worth noting that just days before this encounter, Cuomo and Trump engaged in a bitter Twitter feud and a public altercation on national television. Despite their political differences, they found some levity in the idea of pranking Chris Cuomo, showcasing a brief moment of camaraderie amidst the tensions.
The Cuomo brothers, Andrew and Chris, have had a turbulent journey in the public eye. During the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, they garnered attention by teasing each other and engaging in friendly banter about their mother’s favorite son. However, their dynamic took a turn when Chris was fired from his long-standing position at CNN. Reports surfaced suggesting that Chris had advised his brother on how to handle sexual misconduct allegations, which Andrew vehemently denied. Chris himself denied any wrongdoing, but the controversy surrounding their bond grew.
DeRosa’s memoir aims to shed light on various aspects of political figures’ lives, including New York Attorney General Letitia James, New York City Mayor Eric Adams, and others. By offering insider perspectives, she reveals the complexities and power dynamics that exist within the world of politics.
As we reflect on this surprising and lighthearted episode between Andrew Cuomo and Donald Trump, it serves as a reminder that even in the highest echelons of power, there is room for levity and unexpected connections. Prank calls may be an unconventional tool, but they highlight the intricacies of relationships forged behind the scenes. Perhaps, in the realm of politics, a well-placed joke can momentarily bridge even the widest divides.