Mar 11, 2021 - Politics & Policy

New York Assembly speaker authorizes "impeachment investigation" into Cuomo

Axios

Gov. Andrew Cuomo — Photo: Seth Wenig/AFP via Getty Images

New York State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie (D) on Thursday authorized the Assembly Judiciary Committee to begin an impeachment investigation to "examine allegations of misconduct" against Governor Andrew Cuomo (D).

Driving the news: The impeachment investigation comes after at least six women accused Cuomo of sexual harassment or inappropriate behavior. The governor has so far resisted mounting calls for him to resign, insisting on waiting for the results of an independent investigation by the New York attorney general's office.

Cuomo denies acting inappropriately, but has publicly apologized for making anyone feel uncomfortable.

What he's saying: "The reports of accusations concerning the governor are serious," Heastie, a Democrat, said in a statement.

"The committee will have the authority to interview witnesses, subpoena documents and evaluate evidence, as is allowed by the New York State Constitution," he added.
Heastie said the decision was made after he met the Assembly Majority Conference earlier Thursday.
Assembly member Charles Lavine will lead the investigation.

Of note: New York Attorney General Letitia James tweeted Thursday that the Assembly impeachment probe will have "no bearing" on her office's independent investigation. "Our investigation will continue," she said.

Go deeper: De Blasio joins 59 New York lawmakers in calling for Cuomo's resignation

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New York Assembly speaker authorizes "impeachment investigation" into Cuomo

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