Topline
The impeachment investigation into New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D) is continuing to advance, state lawmakers said at a Wednesday briefing, with dozens of witnesses and “tens of thousands” of documents now part of the expansive probe.
Governor Andrew Cuomo speaks at Rochdale Village Community Center in Queens on April 5, 2021 in New ... [+]
Key Facts
The law firm conducting the investigation, Davis Polk & Wardwell, has spoken with the attorneys for 75 witnesses and has been conducting “follow-up interviews” with those already contacted, New York State Assembly Judiciary Committee Chair Charles D. Lavine (D) said during the latest public update.
The firm has also parsed through “tens of thousands of documents,” according to the Long Island Democrat, including texts, emails, training manuals, policies and more.
Meanwhile, Lavine said an impeachment hotline set up by the firm has received 290 tips: 165 emails and 125 voicemails.
Crucial Quote
“I am very pleased with the progress so far,” Lavine said.
Surprising Fact
Addressing reports the budget for the state impeachment inquiry had been capped at $250,000, Lavine said that sum is just the “initial” amount that has been allocated, but that it will be increased as needed. “This is the payment mechanism routinely followed,” he said.
Key Background
The New York State Assembly launched the inquiry into Cuomo as a precursor to impeachment in March following multiple allegations of inappropriate sexual behavior from the governor’s former aides. The inquiry is also looking into other scandals plaguing the governor, including allegations his administration manipulated data on nursing home deaths during the Covid-19 pandemic and potential state ethics violations related to his recent memoir.
Tangent
Cuomo is also the subject of investigations by the Department of Justice and by New York State Attorney General Letitia James.
