Friends - I wanted to take some time to gather my thoughts before writing to you about Governor Andrew Cuomo’s resignation last week.

First and foremost, I want to thank the eleven brave women who came forward. Women who speak out against powerful men are doubted, scrutinized, and slandered. Disclosing abuse, despite knowing the personal toll that disclosure will take, takes enormous strength of character.

I know that the governor’s resignation will not undo the horrific treatment these women have endured, but I hope that the knowledge that he can not victimize any more women in the state government will bring them some solace.

The governor’s resignation comes as a huge relief; I truly feel that, after months of uncertainty, our state is closing a very dark chapter. Now, we have the opportunity to build a new culture in Albany, one in which everyone is able to pursue their careers without fear of harassment and abuse.

With that said, I am disappointed that the State Assembly will not move forward with impeaching the governor. Andrew Cuomo violated state and federal law. The Assembly’s choice to let him off is shameful, and it sends the message that sexual harassment is something less than a very serious crime.

While I had hoped for greater accountability for the governor, I am also looking forward to working with Lt. Governor Hochul. She is known for her hard work and dedication, and has spent many years faithfully serving our state. I am confident that she will be able to lead Albany into a better, more transparent future.

Right now, my priority is continuing to do my job in the State Senate to the best of my ability. Our state is still battling COVID-19, and the economic fallout the pandemic has caused; we have a lot to do, including distributing rent relief, fixing the Emergency Rental Assistance Program, extending the eviction moratorium, and addressing the homelessness crisis our state is facing.

We also must pass legislation to create strong protections for survivors of sexual harassment and assault, to ensure that the culture Andrew Cuomo fostered in Albany does not continue.

I am looking forward to getting back to work without the constant distraction of the governor’s corruption casting a shadow over all that we have accomplished, and all that we are working towards.

Thank you for reading, and thank you, as always, for your support.

All my best,
Alessandra Biaggi

 

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