Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo’s legal troubles have been a costly affair for the state, racking up over $60 million in expenses.
This hefty sum comes from payments to more than a dozen law firms for defending Cuomo against multiple allegations and scandals during his decade-long tenure.
Notably, $18 million went to private lawyers handling civil sexual harassment cases against him and his closest aides.The report from State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli highlights that Cuomo’s legal defense wasn’t just limited to harassment claims.
Around $11.7 million was spent on defending his pandemic management decisions, alongside controversies surrounding a $5 million book deal and impeachment proceedings. It’s worth noting that New York Attorney General Letitia James found Cuomo guilty of harassing 11 women back in 2021.
Cuomo, who stepped down amid these allegations, has consistently denied any wrongdoing, claiming political motivations behind the accusations.
His political ambitions, however, remain undeterred as he eyes a comeback by challenging NYC Mayor Eric Adams in the upcoming Democratic primary. On the other hand, New York City Controller Brad Lander criticized Cuomo, suggesting he should cover his own legal bills.
Lander didn’t mince words, stating that Cuomo’s actions are burdening taxpayers and that he should repay the $60 million used for his legal defenses. He accused Cuomo of continuing to harass the women involved by dragging them through legal battles at public expense.
Cuomo’s spokesperson, Rich Azzopardi, defended the former governor, attributing many costs to the attorney general’s investigations.
Azzopardi criticized Lander, suggesting he focus on his own ethical controversies instead of Cuomo’s legal costs. He referenced Lander’s pension fund divestment strategy, which he called anti-Israel, as a point of concern. Azzopardi further emphasized Cuomo’s capability and experience, asserting that New Yorkers recognize his potential to lead effectively.
Groups advocating for good governance, such as Common Cause New York, have called on DiNapoli to halt state funding for Cuomo’s legal defenses.
They argue that the comptroller has a responsibility to protect taxpayer money from being used to prolong legal battles. In a letter dated February 11, these groups highlighted the need for oversight and accountability in reimbursing legal expenses.
They pointed out that the lack of oversight has allowed Cuomo to continue his legal maneuvers at the expense of taxpayers. This ongoing saga has kept the spotlight on Cuomo, even as he attempts to re-enter the political arena. Meanwhile, the debate over the use of state funds for his defense continues to stir public and political discourse.
Despite the controversies, Cuomo’s team remains steadfast in asserting his innocence and political viability. As the next election cycle approaches, his potential challenge to Mayor Adams could significantly impact New York’s political landscape. It’s a situation that will undoubtedly keep political analysts and the public alike watching closely.
The outcome of Cuomo’s legal and political battles could have broader implications for how similar situations are handled in the future.
Observers are keen to see whether Cuomo can successfully navigate these challenges and reclaim his political influence. The narrative surrounding his legal expenses and potential political comeback is likely to evolve as new developments unfold.
This piece of you know what wants to run for an elected position after nhe ruined NY when he was the mayor. Put the piece of S**t in jail! ! ! ! !
the idiot yankees will re-elect the murderer (covid). VOYR BLUE? F-YOU
People never learn. They will nominate another corrupt Democrat in place of the Democrat they have now. This same stupid process is repeated over and over in numerous Democrat cities descending into bankruptcy, chaos and mismanagement. Perhaps the electorate with the benefit of a good Democrat education system cannot read nor understand that the most successful and growing cities in America are all run by Republicans/conservatives.
Very good Don, and the truth.
Those same asshole prosecutors cost New York State Billions of dollars wasted going after Trump and is going to cost them 3 times more when Trump sues the city for election interference and so many other charges NYC is going to go bankrupt because of asshole prosecutors like James Bragg Smith and others who are also going to get sued personally. Start lawyering up because you’re going to need good attorneys to keep your asses out of prison. And it won’t be paid by the taxpayers this is going to be on their hands.
we had to pay the fine for one of our perverts that sexually harassed a state employee. I’ll bet, this was a kick back scheme too
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