At the same time that New York regulators are threatening to disrupt Comcast’s acquisition of Time Warner Cable unless the companies agree to costly concessions, Gov. Cuomo, who has received more than $200,000 in combined campaign contributions from the companies, hasn’t taken a stance.
While the US government is reviewing the alliance on antitrust grounds, states have authority over cable service on their soil.
New York regulators have additional power due to a state law passed this year that requires cable mergers to benefit the public.
If a key state such as New York rejects the acquisition, it could lead the companies to abandon the $42.5 billion deal.
Since 2009, Comcast has donated $99,600 to him and Time Warner, based in New York City, has added $112,800, according to campaign filings.
The two companies also donated a combined $500,000 to a state Democratic party account which Cuomo controls.