Andrew Cuomo Officially Steps Down After 10 Years As New York Governor

Andrew Cuomo officially handed in his resignation letter on Monday night, stepping down as New Yorks governor. His resignation made way for Kathy Hochul to be sworn in and become the states first woman in the position.

It has been my pleasure to serve with you both, Cuomo wrote in the brief letter, which was addressed to the leaders of New Yorks state assembly.

Cuomo, a Democrat who was first elected governor in 2010, formally ended his term at 11:59 p.m. Monday, two weeks after announcing he would resign . Calls for him to step down had increased after a report concluded he had sexually harassed female employees.

Cuomo has still denied any wrongdoing.

Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul became New Yorks first female governor after a quick, private swearing-in ceremony with the states chief judge, Janet DiFiore.

IT'S OFFICIAL: @NYGovCuomo submits his resignation letter, effective at 12AM. Note the letter is dated today. pic.twitter.com/d9sHnQJb9v

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IT'S OFFICIAL: @NYGovCuomo submits his resignation letter, effective at 12AM. Note the letter is dated today. pic.twitter.com/d9sHnQJb9v
Amanda Bossard (@amandabossard) August 24, 2021

An independent investigation overseen by New York Attorney General Letitia James found credible evidence that the governor had sexually harassed at least 11 female employees. One aide has since filed a complaint with the Albany County Sheriffs Office, alleging Cuomo groped her.

Investigators also found that Cuomos senior staff, including secretary Melissa DeRosa, retaliated against at least one of the women and tried to undermine her credibility. DeRosa announced her resignation not long before Cuomo.

Cuomo has repeatedly claimed he never touched anyone inappropriately , calling the investigation unfair and untruthful and arguing the womens testimonies havent been scrutinized and verified. He has not acknowledged any improper behavior, and has instead claimed that the women misinterpreted his actions .

I thought a hug and putting my arm around a staffer for a picture was friendly, but she found it to be too forward, Cuomo said during his resignation announcement. I have slipped and called people honey, sweetheart and darling. I meant it to be endearing, but women found it dated and offensive.