U.S. President Joe Biden called on New York Governor Andrew Cuomo to step down Wednesday. Biden made the statement after reading a new report released by New York's attorney general's office alleging that Cuomo had sexually harassed several women.
Biden stopped short of calling for the governor's impeachment. Biden bluntly said the while there may have been some innocent embraces, the fact still stands that the attorney general found there to be some inappropriate behavior.
When asked if he thought Cuomo should be prosecuted, Biden said there is a possibility that he might face charges if the attorney general's allegations are proven to be true. The report released by the attorney general's office detailed multiple allegations of sexual harassment. It also alleged that those under Cuomo were working in a "hostile environment" and that Cuomo had broken multiple state and federal laws.
Biden and Cuomo - both democrats - have had a long friendship, which dates back to when Cuomo's father was serving as the governor of New York. In several occasions, Cuomo had mentioned Biden and even used a photo of them to defend himself.
On Wednesday, Cuomo again denied that he had behaved inappropriately. Speaking directly to New York voters, Cuomo denied all the allegations made in the recent report. Cuomo said politics and bias were likely involved in the release of the report. Cuomo is still determined to run for a fourth term as the governor of New York despite strong opposition from members of his own party.
On Tuesday, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi repeated her call for Cuomo to resign. She cited the latest report as further proof that he was unfit for his position. Pelosi also praised the women that came forward to share their story.
The 165-page report outlined the findings of an independent investigation under the aegis of state Attorney General Letitia James. The report claimed that Cuomo had sexually harassed several current and former New York State employees. Cuomo allegedly made several unwelcomed and nonconsensual physical contact. He was also accused of making numerous offensive remarks and comments, including sexually suggestive language.
The report alleged that Cuomo's behavior had created a hostile work environment for female employees, who were fearful and intimidated by his actions.
