These allegations are serious and deeply concerning. As requested by Attorney General James, the matter should be referred to her office so that she can conduct a transparent, independent and thorough investigation with subpoena power.
According to the New York Times, a second former aide of theGovernor Andrew Cuomo has accused the politician of sexual harassment in the past week.
Now political leaders on both side of the aisle are speaking up about the allegations.
New York Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul said:
"Everyone deserves to have their voice heard and taken seriously. I support an independent review."
Other politicians took Twitter to state their opinion on the latest allegations.
All allegations of workplace sexual harassment must be taken seriously. The multiple allegations made against the governor would be unacceptable for a superior to make in any workplace. A truly independent investigation of the allegations must commence immediately. https://t.co/pa4RlhoG2w
— Mark Poloncarz (@markpoloncarz) February 28, 2021
The latest allegations about Governor Cuomo’s conduct are incredibly disturbing. The review suggested by someone handpicked by the Governor himself, is an outrageous, completely unacceptable idea.
— Rob Ortt (@SenatorOrtt) February 28, 2021
I commend these brave women for coming forward and speaking out. pic.twitter.com/NJEUAeCOJI
Sexual harassment has no place in any environment – not in a bar, not in the street, not in the workplace, and certainly not in our government.
The New York State Legislature made addressing sexual harassment in the workplace a priority. New policies were put in place. Anti-sexual harassment training is mandatory for all. We have unequivocally made clear that sexual harassment in the workplace will not be tolerated and that all allegations of sexual harassment should be taken seriously. We expect nothing less from our Governor. In fact, we expect more.
There is a need for an independent investigation into the recent sexual harassment allegations with unfettered authority to subpoena witnesses, to seek the production of documents, and to bring whatever charges are warranted. The Governor’s proposal to appoint someone who is not independently elected, has no subpoena authority, and no prosecutorial authority is inadequate.
No person accused of sexual harassment should choose who investigates those allegations. We are asking that Governor Cuomo immediately make an official referral to Attorney General Letitia James to appoint an independent investigator.
There needs to be a clear and transparent process. We must ensure that the allegations made against the Governor are properly and thoroughly investigated. All women across New York do not have access to the same platforms to share their stories, but it is our duty to ensure that every woman in New York has access to a fair, balanced, responsive investigative process. We owe due respect to the women raising these concerns to treat their accusations seriously.
And, if their allegations prove credible, the Governor must be held accountable.
These allegations are serious and deeply concerning. As requested by Attorney General James, the matter should be referred to her office so that she can conduct a transparent, independent and thorough investigation with subpoena power.
Sen. Schumer has long believed sexual harassment is never acceptable and must not be tolerated, and that allegations should be thoroughly and independently investigated.
These incidents of sexual harassment and pattern of abuse are abhorrent and have absolutely no place in our society, let alone the highest rungs of government. Such behavior is disturbing and unacceptable. Governor Cuomo must be held accountable under the law to ensure justice is served."
