The former governor of New York, Mario Cuomo, has died at the age of 82. He served three terms from 1983 through to 1994.

Doctors had been treating Mr Cuomo for a heart condition.

Barack Obama has led the tributes to who was considered a liberal icon stating that the former governor was: "an unflinching voice for tolerance, inclusiveness, fairness, dignity and opportunity."

Bill Clinton also paid tribute:

Saddened by the passing of Mario Cuomo - a passionate public servant and the embodiment of the American dream. http://t.co/YP6Liuuj2N

— Bill Clinton (@billclinton) January 2, 2015

 His death came on Thursday as his second son, Andrew, was sworn in for his second term as Governor.

Mr Cuomo rose to prominence when he launched a scathing attack on Republicans, with Ronald Reagan as their President, claiming that the party were only ever concerned about looking after the well-off in American society.

Although approached to run for Presidential office, he always declined.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Matilda, their three daughters, and 14 grandchildren.