Cuomo Delays Investigation into Book Deal
ALBANY – Former Governor Andrew Cuomo has once again managed to postpone an investigation by the New York State Ethics Commission regarding his $5 million book deal from the pandemic period.
The Committee on Ethics, Lobbying and Government has agreed to a temporary restraining order which halts their inquiry into Cuomo’s memoir, “American Crisis.” This development follows a lawsuit he filed in Albany County Supreme Court earlier this week.
Cuomo’s legal team contends that the complex legal battle surrounding his potential use of government personnel and the necessary approvals for his book led to violations of his due process and free speech rights, as well as infringements of the Seventh Amendment.
Rita Glavin, Cuomo’s attorney, expressed concerns in a detailed 45-page lawsuit about COELIG’s handling, stating, “COELIG continues to carry out illegal practices reminiscent of those condemned in this court prior to its repeal.”
She further asserted that the commission is disregarding essential legal prerequisites and the constitutional rights of the former governor.
Oral arguments for both parties are set for April 30th.
Cuomo’s press secretary, Rich Azzopardi, chose not to comment but emphasized that the work on the book was done voluntarily by staff in the governor’s office.
Earlier this year, the state Supreme Court ruled 4-3 against Cuomo in a separate lawsuit in which he sought to abolish COELIG, deeming its structure unconstitutional.
A spokesperson for COELIG has opted not to comment on the ongoing litigation.
