Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, who was previously accused of groping by an ex-aide, is now facing a lawsuit for sexual harassment and abuse. Brittany Commisso, who is one of 11 women whose harassment claims were deemed credible by a state attorney general’s report, is suing Cuomo under New York’s Adult Survivors Act. She alleges “pervasive abusive conduct” and “continuous sexual harassment” during her time as his assistant. Cuomo has vehemently denied these claims, and his attorney has dismissed the lawsuit as an “attempted cash grab.”
The lawsuit also targets the State of New York and another former Cuomo aide, seeking damages for the “substantial personal injuries and economic loss plaintiff suffered.” Commisso’s lawsuit claims that Cuomo subjected her to “unwelcome sexual advances,” “sexual comments,” humiliating tasks, and later retaliated against her after rejecting his advances and reporting his behavior. Furthermore, she alleges that she was demoted by the then-lieutenant governor, Kathy Hochul, who is now governor, and was removed from her front-office duties.
Amidst this legal battle, it was reported that Cuomo was considering a potential mayoral bid, despite an ongoing FBI investigation into New York City Mayor Eric Adams. The investigation is focused on campaign money, favors, and possible foreign influence. These political developments have stirred controversy, with Commisso expressing disgust at the idea of Cuomo seeking public office again in light of the allegations against him.
These allegations come after an attorney general’s report in August 2021, which resulted in Cuomo’s resignation. The report detailed allegations by Commisso and others, leading to Cuomo stepping down from his position as governor. While Cuomo denies the claims, Commisso’s lawsuit is part of a broader reckoning with sexual harassment and abuse allegations brought against high-profile individuals.
