NY Governor Cuomo Steps down amidst Sexual Harassment allegations

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who for weeks has been steadfast in his refusal to step down in the wake of sexual harassment allegations, today announced his resignation from office, effective in 14 days. The announcement ended a remarkable and rapid fall for a governor whose national profile had risen to extraordinary heights during the covid-19 pandemic.

Cuomo, 63, had adamantly resisted calls for his resignation over the the past five months, stepped down today after last week's release that a New York State Attorney General Office investigation found credible the claims against him.

Cuomo said his resignation would take effect in 14 days, ending a decade-long run in the office he dedicated most of his adult life to keeping within his family – first as an adviser to his father, the late Gov. Mario Cuomo, before winning three terms in the governor's chair himself.

"The best way I can help now is if I step aside and let government get back to governing. And therefore, that's what I'll do," he said in his address. Cuomo resigned just one day after Melissa DeRosa resigned her position as his top aide less than a week after state investigators said he allegedly sexually harassed 11 women and she was part of the “retaliation” against one of his accusers.

With Cuomo's resignation, Lt Governor Kathy Hochul (D, Buffalo) becomes the first female Governor in NY State history. Hochul said, “I agree with Governor Cuomo’s decision to step down. It is the right thing to do.”

Just eight days ago Hochul had posted on her twitter account:

"Sexual harassment is unacceptable in any workplace, and certainly not in public service. The Attorney General’s investigation has documented repulsive & unlawful behavior by the Governor towards multiple women. I believe these brave women & admire their courage coming forward."

She went on to say in her post:

"Because Lieutenant Governors stand next in the line of succession, it would not be appropriate to comment further on the process at this moment."

After Cuomo's resignation earlier today Hochul said she is ready to lead as the next governor as Cuomo called for a “seamless” transition for Hochul to step into the office.

Hochul, 62, was born in Buffalo, New York, the second of six children. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Syracuse University and a law degree from Catholic University Columbus School of Law.

She worked as a legal counsel and legislative assistant to U.S. Representative John LaFalce and U.S. Senator Daniel Moynihan, and for the New York State Assembly and was later was appointed by Gov. Elliot Spitzer to the post of Erie County Clerk, and later elected to the office.

Hochul was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2011 during a special election to fill a vacant seat due to the resignation of Rep. Chris Lee. She then lost the 2012 election for that seat but in 2014 won the election for the Lt Governor's seat and was re-elected in 2018. 

C
Submitted by Carmel, NY

Become a Local Voice in Your Community!

HamletHub invites you to contribute stories, events, and more to keep your neighbors informed and connected.

Read Next