'Costs Us Nothing': New York Gov. Cuomo Downplays $1.5 Billion Payout to Amazon

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo downplayed the $1.5 billion in tax credits and $1.2 billion in tax breaks given to Amazon in return for the company basing its new headquarters in New York City, claiming it, “Cost us nothing.”

“This is a big money-maker for us — costs us nothing, nada, niente,” claimed Cuomo during a press conference. “We make money doing this.”

Despite attempting to downplay the deal, Amazon is reportedly receiving “$2.5 billion in taxpayer subsidies,” including “$1.525 billion in tax credits and construction grants,” and “$1.28 billion in tax breaks.”

Amazon chose to split its new headquarters between New York City and Arlington, Virginia, this week, after receiving hundreds of offers and incentives from cities and counties in North America which sought to entice Amazon into building its new headquarters in the area.

The decision has been criticized by figures across the political spectrum, from Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) to Fox News host Tucker Carlson.

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