Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) is calling sexual harassment allegations against New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D) “serious” and “very troubling.”
During a news conference on Tuesday, a reporter asked Schumer if he believes Cuomo should resign.
“The allegations that have been made… are serious, very troubling. These women have to be listened to. I’ve always believed that sexual harassment is not acceptable, must not be tolerated,” Schumer said.
He added, “Now there’s an investigation in the hands of a very, very capable person — the attorney general of New York State. I supported it and called for it. And now she’s doing it.”
“I know the Attorney General will conduct a thorough investigation that will be totally, totally independent without any outside interference political or otherwise,” Schumer continued.
Watch his comments below (starting at 11:00):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wtpT5H_FW_g
After a third woman came forward with allegations of unwanted advances from Cuomo, Rep. Katherine Rice of New York called on the governor to resign.
According to The New York Times, Anna Ruch claimed Cuomo tried to kiss her at a wedding reception in 2019 and put his hand on her lower back.
Former aides Lindsey Boylan and Charlotte Bennett have also accused Cuomo of sexually harassing them.
New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio (D) was asked during his CNN appearance on Monday whether Cuomo should resign if the allegations are confirmed, as IJR reported.
“If you’ve sexually harassed young women in your employment, these are disqualifying realities. How could anyone look the people in the face after that? If these allegations, if these charges are proven, there’s just no way he can govern,” de Blasio said.
Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) suggested it is too soon for Cuomo to resign, as IJR reported.
He told Fox News this week, “Rather than jumping to the conclusion that he should resign, I think what should happen is there should be a process, where the people who make the accusations can be heard, and he can defend himself.”
Graham added, “I think that’s the best thing for the people of New York, and the best thing for the country.”