Multiple people accused New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo of attempting to influence the sexual harassment investigation against him after concerns were raised about the Democrat’s involvement in the process.
The governor, who has been roiled by a slew of inappropriate conduct allegations, is reportedly offering lawyers to those within his orbit who are being questioned by members of Attorney General Letitia James’s team, which is spearheading the inquiry. State Sen. Alessandra Biaggi, a Democrat, posited that Cuomo’s purported move is a form of intimidation.
“The lawyers the governor is providing do not represent [staff questioned by the attorney general’s office],” Biaggi said. “It’s highly inappropriate. New Yorkers should be outraged, and it’s another example of the governor using his position of power to circumvent accountability.”
Questions have also been raised regarding the hiring of the law firm of Davis Polk to helm an impeachment inquiry against Cuomo because a retired partner reportedly has ties to New York Chief Judge Janet DiFiore, an ally of the governor. Lindsey Boylan, who accused Cuomo of trying to kiss her and asking if she wanted to play strip poker during a 2017 flight, slammed the proceedings on Thursday.
Bill DE BLASIO CALLS ON CUOMO TO RESIGN AMID SLEW OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT ALLEGATIONS
“To be clear, there is no fair process of integrity with Davis Polk leading the ‘investigation’ at the direction of @CarlHeastie,” she tweeted. “That’s an absolute floor.”
Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, whom Boylan targeted in her outrage, on Wednesday said in a statement that the attorney’s appointment would give his office “the experience, independence and resources” to conduct the investigation into Cuomo.
“Since Thursday, Chairman Lavine led a vigorous search for a top-flight firm to assist with the investigation. I have the utmost faith that Assemblymember Lavine and our Judiciary Committee will conduct a full and fair investigation,” he added. “Hiring Davis Polk will give the Committee the experience, independence and resources needed to handle this important investigation in a thorough and expeditious manner.”
New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio called for the governor’s resignation.
“It’s deeply troubling,” de Blasio said during a press briefing. “The specific allegation that the governor called an employee of his, someone who he had power over, called them to a private place and then sexually assaulted her is absolutely unacceptable to me.”
“It is disgusting to me, and he can no longer serve as governor,” he continued.
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Cuomo has denied the claims from his accusers and refused to step down.
The governor’s office did not immediately respond to a request for comment from the Washington Examiner.
