Sen. Chuck Schumer Joins Calls For NY Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s Resignation

The sexual harassment accusations against New York Governor Andrew Cuomo continue to mount up, and so do calls for his resignation among members of his own political party.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is now the highest-ranking Democrat to say that Gov. Cuomo should step down. Schumer issued a joint statement with New York Senator Kirsten Gillibrand on Friday crediting the alleged victims for speaking out and making their stance clear about the embattled head of New York State.

"Confronting and overcoming the COVID crisis requires sure and steady leadership. We commend the brave actions of the individuals who have come forward with serious allegations of abuse and misconduct," began Schumer and Gillibrand’s statement.

"Due to the multiple credible sexual harassment and misconduct allegations, it is clear that Governor Cuomo has lost the confidence of his governing partners, and the people of New York. Governor Cuomo should resign," the statement ended.

In a publicly-issued apology, Cuomo apologized for making his accusers feel “uncomfortable.” Prior to those accusers making their claims public, Cuomo was already facing scrutiny and criticism for his alleged non-reporting of state nursing home deaths.

In fact, his administration is accused of hiding them, but it claims it “initially reported only the more easily confirmed deaths that had occurred inside of residential care facilities.”

Cuomo says he’s cooperating fully with New York State Attorney General Letitia James’ investigation into the sexual harassment claims and that he has no intention of stepping down. He’s also casting doubt upon the motives behind some of the accusations, saying “you need to know the facts before you make a decision.”

Cuomo is up for reelection in 2022. If he resigns, Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul will complete his term.