Kathy Hochul to become New York's first female Governor after Andrew Cuomo's resignation
In a televised address, Cuomo said that the best way he could help is to step aside and let the government do their work as per the given circumstances. He said that his resignation would be effective in 14 days.
FollowAfter facing possible impeachment over sexual harassment claims from 11 women and mounting pressure from Democrats, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo announced his resignation. He will hand over the reins to Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul, a fellow Democratic who will become New York's first-ever female governor.
In a televised address, Cuomo said that the best way he could help is to step aside and let the government do their work as per the given circumstances. He said that his resignation would be effective in 14 days.
Addressing the sexual harassment report, he said it is fake and apologized if his actions deeply hurt anyone. He further said that he hugs and kisses people casually, women and men but never crossed the line with anyone.
Before being engulfed in sexual harassment accusation, a year ago, the 63-year-old Cuomo earned praise for his handling of the coronavirus pandemic. He comes from a family actively involved in politics --- his father, Mario, served three terms as a governor, and his brother Chris is a star host. Cuomo was elected governor of New York in 2010 and easily won reelection in the heavily Democratic state in 2014 and 2018 -- a three-term winner like his father.
However, the Governor has repeatedly denied the claims of sexual harassment outlined in a report released last week by the office of state Attorney General Letitia James.
President Joe Biden, who had called for Cuomo's resignation last week, said, "I respect the governor's decision."
