NY Governor Andrew Cuomo Says He Won't Resign, Apologizes Again to Harassment Accusers
Cuomo denies he “touched anyone inappropriately” and says he will cooperate with state attorney general’s inquiry
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New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo on Wednesday insisted that he will not resign as sexual harassment accusations have mounted against him in the last week. He also apologized again for making women feel uncomfortable and said he was “embarrassed” by his behavior — but denied touching anyone inappropriately.
“I never knew at the time that I was making anyone feel uncomfortable and I certainly never, ever meant to offend anyone, or hurt anyone, or cause anyone any pain,” the governor said during a coronavirus briefing.
He asked New Yorkers to “wait for the facts” from the attorney general’s investigation “before forming an opinion,” but assured them he will “fully cooperate” with the probe.
“I also want you to know that I have learned from what has been an incredibly difficult situation — for me as well as other people — I have learned an important lesson. I’m sorry. I’m sorry for whatever pain I caused anyone. I never intended it and I will be the better for this experience,” he concluded.
In recent weeks, Cuomo — who was praised at the onset of the coronavirus pandemic for his frequent and transparent briefings — has faced mounting criticism for not only his handling of nursing homes in his state during the pandemic, but for allegedly sexually harassing multiple women. Two accusers were formerly his aides.
His brother, CNN anchor Chris Cuomo, has also been criticized for friendly interviews with the governor last year. Earlier this week, the primetime anchor told his audience that, of course, he can’t cover the accusations of misconduct against his politician brother. Observers suggested he never should have covered him at all.
Over the weekend, the governor released a statement to acknowledge that some of his comments have been “misinterpreted as an unwanted flirtation.”
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