Hochul, 62, will become New York’s 57th governor and the state’s first female governor when Cuomo officially steps down in 13 days after a state attorney general report concluded he sexually harassed 11 women. She said during the press conference that Cuomo’s resignation was “appropriate” and in the “best interest” for New York.
The soon-to-be governor also distanced her future administration from the reputation now associated with Cuomo’s tenure. Hochul stated it should be “pretty clear” she and Cuomo weren’t close, “physically or otherwise,” and she was not previously aware of the sexual harassment allegations against Cuomo in the state attorney general’s report.
“No one will ever describe my administration as a toxic work environment,” she said.
Hochul promised that no person “named as doing anything unethical” in the state attorney general report would “remain in my administration,” and affirmed that she was ready to assume Cuomo’s post.
“I know the job. I fought for the same policies. That’s why I’m more prepared that anyone could possibly be for this position,” she added.
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She said there would be “turnover” under her governance and reiterated that she was not aware of or complicit in fostering the “toxic” workplace described in the report.
However, she promised to continue fighting for the types of policies “many people have supported” during the Cuomo administration, such as raising the minimum wage, providing paid family leave and supporting clean energy.
“Those policies will continue and even be more enhanced. But with respect to the bigger environment and the reputation of the current administration, I think it’s pretty clear and it’s no secret that [Cuomo and I] have not been close and I have not been associated with that,” Hochul said.
“I know the job. I fought for the same policies. That’s why I’m more prepared that anyone could possibly be for this position,” she added.
However, she affirmed that she’s “looking forward to a smooth transition” to her incoming administration.
“He spoke to me about wanting make sure that the transition to continuity is important, and that I have an opportunity to meet with state cabinet officials, other people as well. So, they view it as necessary,” she said.
“I’m prepared to take office as any lieutenant governor is, from the very first hour you’re sworn in as lieutenant governor,” she added.
When asked by a reporter if she’s considering candidates from downstate New York, Hochul replied that she’s “cognizant of the need for diversity and an inclusive ticket.”
“I’m going to name someone that I believe the state will be familiar with and we’re very proud of, but the process is still in its early stages,” she said.
Hochul stated it should be “pretty clear” she and Cuomo weren’t close, “physically or otherwise,” and she was not previously aware of the sexual harassment allegations against Cuomo in the state attorney general’s report.
She promised that at the end of her tenure as governor, “no one will ever describe my administration as a toxic work environment.”
Hochul said she would use the next 13 days before taking office to continue to develop her vision for the state, meet with Cabinet officials and others in consideration for roles in her administration, as well as travel the state to meet with New Yorkers.
“I will take advantage of that time,” she said.
“People will soon learn that my style is to listen first and then take decisive action,” she added.
She added that Cuomo’s resignation was “appropriate” and in the “best interest” for New York.
