The state of New York has agreed to pay $450,000 to settle a lawsuit from a former aide to ex-Governor Andrew Cuomo, who accused Cuomo of sexual harassment and groping during his time in office.
The former aide, Brittany Commisso, filed a lawsuit against Cuomo and the state, alleging sexual harassment and retaliation after reporting the incidents. These allegations were part of a series of misconduct claims that led to Cuomo’s resignation as governor in 2021.
Commisso’s lawyers stated that the settlement “completely vindicates her claims” and that she is “glad to be able to move forward with her life.”
The settlement comes as Cuomo is attempting a political comeback by running for mayor of New York City. After losing the Democratic primary to Zohran Mamdani, Cuomo has relaunched his campaign as an independent candidate, facing challenges in a city where Democratic support is strong.
Cuomo, who denies any wrongdoing, has faced ongoing scrutiny and backlash due to the scandal during his mayoral campaign.
In response to the settlement, Cuomo’s lawyers criticized the outcome, stating that it is not a vindication but a way to avoid the truth. They maintain that Commisso’s allegations are false and oppose the dismissal of her lawsuit.
Cuomo resigned as governor following a report from the state attorney general that found he had sexually harassed multiple women. Commisso filed her lawsuit just before the expiration of the Adult Survivors Act, which extended the time limit for suing over sexual assault.
The settlement of the lawsuit signifies a resolution to the legal battle, with the state expressing satisfaction in minimizing further costs to taxpayers, according to a spokesperson for Governor Kathy Hochul.
