On March 12, 2021, U.S. Sens. Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand issued a joint statement urging Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo to resign from his position. They emphasized the “credible and multiple allegations of sexual harassment and misconduct” against the Democratic governor, as well as allegations regarding his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and the substantial financial gains from his book about it.
The senators determined that Gov. Cuomo has lost the support of his fellow lawmakers and the people of New York.
Both Sens. Schumer and Gillibrand demonstrated leadership by joining the numerous elected officials who had already called for the governor’s resignation prior to their statement. (For context: This editorial board had also called for Mr. Cuomo’s resignation five days before.) Despite these appeals, the governor insisted on due process as the investigation led by state Attorney General Letitia James progressed. However, upon the release of the investigation’s findings five months later, Gov. Cuomo resigned.
A week has now passed since federal prosecutors revealed a highly detailed indictment for corruption against U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez of New Jersey. The indictment accuses Sen. Menendez, his wife, and three businessmen from New Jersey of engaging in bribery to benefit themselves and the Egyptian government. According to the indictment, the Menendezes received cash, gold bars, and a Mercedes-Benz C-300 convertible in exchange for official favors, including efforts to impede the nomination of a federal prosecutor who posed a threat to one of their alleged supporters.
As we have consistently emphasized, elected officials facing criminal charges are entitled to due process and the presumption of innocence under the law, just like any other citizen. However, they should not retain political power, particularly when it diminishes the value of their office. Simply put, the people of New Jersey and the rest of the country deserve a representative who is free from scandal and capable of focusing on their duties rather than preparing for a trial.
In a closely divided Senate, it is unfortunate yet unsurprising that the majority conference would respond to the potential removal of one of their members with trepidation. Nevertheless, a substantial number of Democratic senators have exhibited moral courage. As of now, more than 20 members of the conference have called for Sen. Menendez’s resignation. Sen. Gillibrand joined their ranks on Tuesday.
The majority leader of the chamber ought to do the same. Sen. Schumer initially acknowledged Sen. Menendez’s right to due process and a fair trial upon the indictment’s release, a sentiment that likely frustrated Gov. Cuomo. However, Sen. Schumer more recently conceded that the conduct described in the indictment falls “way, way short” of what is expected of senators. While it is possible that the leader is working behind the scenes to facilitate a graceful exit for Sen. Menendez, it is now imperative for him to be more forceful.
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