Andrew Cuomo: Republicans see society through a lens of fear and division

MELVILLE, N.Y., May 22 (UPI) -- New York Governor Andrew Cuomo had harsh words for statewide Republicans today, setting a tone of aggressive social progressivism for his 2014 re-election bid.

Speaking at the New York State Democratic Party Convention, Cuomo formally accepted his party's nomination for governor and kicked off his re-election campaign.

"There are night and day differences between what we believe and what they believe and that's why this election is so important," said Cuomo said.

Their view is an ultra conservative social agenda that sees society through a lens of fear and division. Our view sees society through a lens of optimism and inclusion. They see government as a vehicle for corporate opportunity. We see government as a vehicle for individual opportunity.

Cuomo spoke specifically of social issues such as marriage equality, women's rights and gun control, saying Republicans will attempt to undo recent gains made in the state.

"New York is on the move and we ain't going back."

Cuomo is running against long-shot Republican Rob Astorino, whom he currently holds a 2-1 lead over in the polls.