Following new allegations of sexual harassment, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has apologized for possible „misinterpretations“ of his behavior and has announced an investigation.
“I admit that some of the things I have said have been misinterpreted as undesirable flirtation. As far as anyone felt that way, I’m really sorry, ”said Cuomo last night. “I’ve never touched anyone inappropriately,” he said.
Cuomo’s office announced an investigation yesterday. New York Attorney General Letitia James and Chief Justice of the State Court of Appeals, Janet DiFiore, have been asked to appoint a politically independent lawyer, Cuomo adviser Beth Garvey said. This lawyer should publish a report after a thorough review. „All staff in the governor’s office will cooperate fully.“
Cuomo came under additional pressure after the new harassment allegations became known. A former health advisor in Cuomo’s government accused the now 63-year-old of not touching her last spring, but of verbally harassing her. „I understood that the governor wanted to sleep with me and felt terribly uncomfortable and afraid,“ said 25-year-old ex-employee Charlotte Bennett of the „New York Times“ (Saturday edition).
More serious allegations
A few days ago, a former economic advisor had accused the governor of having sexually molested her. Lindsey Boylan (36) accused Cuomo, among other things, of kissing her on the lips without asking in his Manhattan office in 2018.
Boylan wrote on the online platform Medium: „Governor Andrew Cuomo has created a culture within his administration in which sexual harassment and harassment are so ubiquitous that it is not only tolerated but expected.“ Cuomo silenced his critics through intimidation .
Bennett and Boylan have left their jobs in the Cuomo government. White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki called the two women’s allegations „serious.“ She told CNN yesterday that the Democratic US President Joe Biden supported a quick and independent investigation.
