New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has resigned after an inquiry found that he sexually harassed a number of women, prompting efforts to remove him.
“The best way I can help now is if I step aside,” said Cuomo, while continuing to deny the claims. The resignation will take effect in 14 days.
Lt Governor Kathy Hochul will become the first woman to lead New York state.
Cuomo had been facing pressure to resign from fellow Democrats, including President Joe Biden.
Just a year ago he was basking in the adulation as millions of Americans tuned in daily to his no-nonsense televised briefings on the coronavirus pandemic.
Cuomo is the third New York governor in a row to leave office under a cloud of scandal.
An independent investigation by the New York Attorney General’s office found that 63-year-old Cuomo sexually harassed 11 women, including employees of the state.
The women allege that he made sexual comments, inappropriately touched or groped them, and kissed them without consent.
This report led to many prominent Democrats turning against Cuomo, including Speaker of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi, Senate leader Chuck Schumer and New York’s tow US senators.
Cuomo is still facing criminal investigations relating to the harassment claims.
