ALBANY â An increasing number of state lawmakers and political leaders took sides Tuesday as officials debate Gov. Andrew Cuomoâs resignation and the need for due process after a third woman accused the governor of sexual harassment.
On Monday night, The New York Times reported 33-year-old Anna Ruchâs recount of an incident after meeting the governor at a Manhattan wedding in 2019. She alleges the governor held her face after they were introduced and asked if he could kiss her. Ruch said Cuomo had made her feel uncomfortable when he put his hand on her bare lower back.
Ruch is the third woman to publicly accuse the governor of sexual harassment or share an account of intrusive sexual advancements.
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WATERTOWN â Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo is facing new criticism from Albany legislators after a second former staffer came forward over the weekend with additional allegations of sexual harassment.
State senators and Assembly members from both parties have called on the governor to resign, including state Senate Majority Leader Robert G. Ortt, R-North Tonawanda, and Sen. Alessandra R. Biaggi, D-Bronx.
Most of the state representatives for Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence counties have stopped short of calling for the governorâs resignation, but all say an independent investigation, led by state Attorney General Letitia A. James, must be carried out and protected.