Cuomo Reflects on Past Allegations

Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo stated on Monday that he has “learned a lesson” from the sexual harassment allegations against him. He mentioned that he wouldn’t initiate any cheek kisses unless he was the one to start it.

Cuomo, who is now running for mayor of New York City, resigned in 2021 following claims that he had sexually harassed 13 women who were employees of the state. In a recent interview with ABC’s “The View,” he was asked about his message to voters who might still be grappling with these allegations, especially after the Justice Department confirmed “credible claims.”

“When the report was issued, I felt it was politically motivated,” he said. He pointed out that he was unaware of the specific allegations at that time, describing the process as surprising because he didn’t know the individuals involved. For years, five district attorneys handled the report, he noted.

After Cuomo’s resignation, a legislative report released in November of that year revealed “overwhelming evidence” of sexual harassment by him against a state employee. New York Attorney General Letitia James stated that their independent investigation identified multiple women who were subjected to unwanted groping, kissing, and inappropriate remarks.

Cuomo added that he has not been criminally charged relating to these allegations. “I filed a lawsuit in court, but, well, it didn’t lead to anything. I was dropped from the case. So there was no outcome from those allegations. It was a very difficult time for me and my family,” he shared.

“If someone felt offended, that wasn’t intentional. I learned a painful lesson,” he reflected. “Unless you start the kiss, you shouldn’t kiss anyone on the cheek. Real sensitivity matters, and you have to be very cautious.” He reiterated that if people feel uncomfortable, that’s valid.

Despite the findings of the Independent Report, a judge dismissed the charges against him in January 2022. According to a PBS report, the Albany County prosecutors argued that there was insufficient evidence to support the claims.

In January 2024, however, the DOJ published a report revealing evidence that Cuomo harassed 13 women, even more than what was found in the independent investigation by James. The DOJ indicated that Cuomo created a “sexually hostile work environment” for female employees.

In June, Cuomo expressed to the New York Times that he regretted resigning in 2021, reflecting on the decision made at that time.