NH Politicians Happy to See Cuomo Resign as Governor

Seacoast politicians are pleased with New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo's announcement Tuesday that he will leave office in 14 days.

The announcement came after pressure mounted from the White House on down following an investigation by his state's Attorney General determined he sexually harassed eleven women. The State Assembly has begun impeachment proceedings and the Democrat had very little political support.

The entire New Hampshire Congressional delegation along with Gov. Chris Sununu called for Cuomo to step aside with the release of the Attorney General's report.

"Senator Hassan called on him to resign and it’s appropriate that he will do so," a spokesman for the U.S. Senator told Seacoast Current.

“Senator Shaheen made clear that she believes Cuomo should resign given the Attorney General’s findings of disturbing sexual harassment allegations and is glad he’s done so,” Sam Paisley, spokesperson from Senator Shaheen’s office said.

Rep. Chris Pappas in a statement released to WMUR said Cuomo's resignation came too late for the victims of his documented harassment, abuse and retaliation.

"This should be only the first step toward accountability and I hope the incoming governor can provide steady leadership for the people of her state," Pappas said.

Sununu had a two-word statement for WMUR: "About time."

Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul will become the next governor.

Cuomo said months of litigation spent on impeachment would be a "distraction" when attention should be focused on COVID-19, fighting gun violence and saving New York City.

"And I think that given the circumstances, the best way I can help now is if I step aside and let government get back to governing. And, therefore, that’s what I’ll do because I work for you, and doing the right thing is doing the right thing for you," Cuomo said.

Contact reporter Dan Alexander at Dan.Alexander@townsquaremedia.com or via Twitter @DanAlexanderNH