The New York lawmakers’ request comes after a detailed report accused Governor Andrew Cuomo of sexually harassing multiple women.
What We Know:
- Cuomo spokesman Rich Azzopardi declared Cuomo would work with the state Assembly committee as they complete their impeachment probe. On August 5, Assembly Judiciary Committee lawyers told Cuomo’s attorneys he must provide the panel with evidence by August 13. Azzopardi stated that Gov. Cuomo “appreciates the opportunity” and would cooperate.
- The Judiciary Committee began its impeachment investigation in March after more allegations came out. In addition, Committee staff members also looked into other accusations made against Cuomo, such as whether his staff hid or altered data on coronavirus deaths in nursing homes and if he misused state resources to promote his book. Cuomo and his staff deny these claims.
- The impeachment probe was conducted alongside New York Attorney General Letitia James‘ investigation into the sexual harassment allegations. In her findings, James discovered Cuomo abused at least 11 women, including former and current employees. James also revealed that Cuomo tried to retaliate against at least one woman who reported his misconduct. The report announced Cuomo inappropriately kissed and touched the women and also made several lewd comments towards them.
- After the document’s release, Cuomo faced several calls for his resignation, one of them coming from President Joe Biden. However, Cuomo quickly issued a statement in which he assured the public he does not intend on resigning. Furthermore, he rejected the notion that he sexually harassed any of the women.
- Under New York’s Constitution, the Assembly can impeach the governor and try him before the Senate. After this, the Senate would decide whether to convict or remove him from office.
An impeachment resolution requires a simple majority in the 150-member Assembly.
