Local politicians react to Cuomo resignation

Central New York — In light of Gov. Andrew Cuomo announcing on Tuesday his resignation from office to take effect in two weeks, local lawmakers are sharing their thoughts.

Madison County Chairman John Becker shared the following statement: “Madison County looks forward to working with Lt. Governor Kathy Hochul, as she becomes New York State’s first female governor. We wish her luck in her new position. Working with someone who understands local government and upstate issues will be a great thing for Madison County and our surrounding communities.

“We appreciate that Governor Andrew Cuomo took into consideration the cost and long-term distraction that this investigation has been, and will be for the citizens of New York. We send our prayers to all of those involved. There is no place for sexual harassment of any form in the workplace.”

State Sen. Joseph Griffo, R-rome, commented on how Cuomo’s sexual harassment investigation has affected New York’s legacy.

“A disgraceful, disappointing, and unfortunate chapter in the history of state government has ended with the resignation of Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who had lost credibility and whose conduct and behavior was unacceptable,” Griffo said. “This resignation was a needed and necessary action to meet the challenges confronting New York, and we cannot sit idle now.” There’s much work to be done, he said.

Like Becker, the Republican senator also shared a positive message in regards to working with Hochul as governor to “ensure that the Mohawk Valley and North Country receive the attention they deserve and that our communities have access to the resources that they need to rebuild, grow and flourish for years to come.”

State Sen. Rachel May, D- Syracuse, stated, “I am glad that the governor has resigned. Now it is time for us to continue focusing on the business of governing the great state of New York. I have full faith that incoming Governor Hochul will make an outstanding leader for New Yorkers.”

Assemblyman John Salka, R-brookfield, said Cuomo’s resignation is “welcome news for all New Yorkers.”

“He has finally acted in the best interest of the people. His actions have been disturbing and inexcusable. I am pleased to see the governor step aside and allow government to function properly. I will continue to stand with these women and fight to hold the governor accountable. Congratulations to Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul, I look forward to working with her in a positive and bipartisan manner.”

U.S. Rep. Claudia Tenney, R-new Hartford, posted a tweet about the news saying, “New York’s version of Saddam Hussein is gone. It will be interesting to see what the far left will do now. Choose your next Governor wisely New York. Believe it or not, there are even worse players on the bench.”

Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente also expressed his disappointment in the situation while remaining positive about the leadership change.

“It is a sad day for the State of New York,” Picente said. “There are still many troubling questions that need to be answered, and Governor Cuomo should be held accountable. We are living in crucial times, and above all else, our state government must function without distraction or dishonor. The people of New York deserve better.

“We now have to collectively pick up the pieces and get New York back on track. Challenging times are ahead, and I am confident that Lt. Governor Hochul is up to the task. She is an Upstater who understands local governments and has always been a strong and reliable partner to Oneida County. I look forward to working with her to move our community and state forward.”

AP PHOTO/SETH WENIG New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo prepares to board a helicopter after announcing his resignation, Tuesday, Aug. 10, 2021, in New York. Cuomo says he will resign over a barrage of sexual harassment allegations. The three-term Democratic governor’s decision, which will take effect in two weeks, was announced Tuesday as momentum built in the Legislature to remove him by impeachment.