Written by Konnor Long (News Writer)
In a statement made on Wednesday, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo insists that he will not resign from office following his sexual harassment scandal. A team of independent investigators has been appointed to conduct the sexual harassment allegations against Gov. Cuomo. This team was hired by Letitia James, the New York State Attorney General, and will conduct the investigation using her subpoena powers. These powers include the ability to request documents and witnesses which will aid in the investigation, including the governor who will be required to testify under oath if interviewed.
As of Sunday, five women have made public accusations toward Cuomo for sexual harassment and misconduct. The most recent of these is Ana Liss, who served as a member of Cuomo’s operations aide in 2013, up until 2015. During this time, she alleges that the governor had made inappropriate inquiries as to her personal life, as well as several inappropriate and unwelcome advances. A photo that is currently being used as evidence towards these encounters displays Andrew Cuomo holding the face of a seemingly uncomfortable aide during a private event.
Of the women who have spoken publicly about their encounters with Cuomo, including another former aide Karen Hinton, have claimed that similar encounters have occurred. In a release, Hinton told the Washington Post about an extensive history of inappropriate behavior. She details an occasion in which Cuomo invited her to his hotel room, suggesting that the two should sleep together, as well as several unwanted embraces. Multiple individuals have stepped forward confirming many details of the occurrence.
New York GOP lawmakers have directed efforts toward Governor Cuomo’s impeachment following this investigation. Currently, Governor Cuomo’s office has dismissed all accounts of sexual harassment and/or misconduct. In a press release he stated:
“This did not happen. Karen Hinton is a known antagonist of the Governor’s who is attempting to take advantage of this moment to score cheap points with made-up allegations from 21 years ago. All women have the right to come forward and tell their story — however, it’s also the responsibility of the press to consider self-motivation. This is reckless.”
Two male aides have come forward in support of allegers, both claiming that they were subjected to verbal harassment, and recall numerous occasions in which he called them “pussies.” More than twenty individuals who have worked with him personally in the last three decades have substantiated Claims that Cuomo has rated and verbally attacked many subordinates, and would routinely mock male aides for effeminate behavior.
During his first official conference on the matter, Cuomo denied any inappropriate behavior pertaining to the allegations but had apologized to any women which may have perceived his behavior as offensive or inappropriate. He asks the public to postpone all judgments until the state attorney general probe is conducted.
The Claw 