After months of brutal and damaging details about his alleged inappropriate conduct with women, the state of New York’s highest ranking official is stepping down.
On Aug. 10, NY Gov. Andrew Cuomo held a press conference concerning the allegations made against him. After a few minutes, Cuomo eventually announced that he was resigning as the state’s governor, effective 14 days from Aug. 10. After that, Lieutenant Gov. Kathleen “Kathy” C. Hochul will take over, becoming the 57th governor and first woman in the history of New York to serve in that capacity.
“I think that given the circumstances the best way I can help now is if I step aside and let government get back to government, and therefore that is what I’ll do, because I work for you, and doing the right thing, is doing the right thing for you,” Cuomo said during the announcement.
In response to Cuomo’s resignation, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio released the following statement on Governor Andrew Cuomo’s resignation: “Make no mistake, this is the result of survivors bravely telling their stories. It was past time for Andrew Cuomo to resign and it’s for the good of all New York.”
“Today closes a sad chapter for all of New York, but it’s an important step towards justice,” said New York Attorney General Letitia James in a statement. “I thank Governor Cuomo for his contributions to our state. The ascension of our Lieutenant Governor, Kathy Hochul, will help New York enter a new day. We must continue to build on the progress already made and improve the lives of New Yorkers in every corner of the state. I know our state is in good hands with Lieutenant Governor Hochul at the helm, and I look forward to continuing to work with her.”
Despite his resignation, Cuomo remained adamant in his defense, with his attorney suggesting that the office of Attorney General Letitia James tilted the investigation to convict Cuomo rather than search for the facts.
Cuomo’s decision to step down was called upon by many in his party, including the likes of NJ Gov. Phil Murphy and President Joe Biden.
