Mayor Cuomo? Scandal Says “Not So Fast”!
New York State has agreed to pay $450,000 to settle a lawsuit under the Adult Survivors Act filed by Brittany Commisso, a former aide to ex-Governor Andrew Cuomo, who alleges sexual harassment and workplace retaliation, reigniting scrutiny of Cuomo’s past conduct as he campaigns for New York City mayor.
At a Glance
• Brittany Commisso filed suit in November 2023, citing groping by Cuomo in December 2020.
• The state’s settlement allocates $225,000 to Commisso and $225,000 to her attorneys.
• Investigations by the Attorney General, State Assembly, and U.S. Justice Department found supporting evidence.
• Cuomo’s legal team dismissed the settlement as a “nuisance” with no admission of liability.
• The payout surfaces amid Cuomo’s mayoral campaign and echoes earlier settlements by other accusers.
Background And Settlement
Commisso, who worked in Cuomo’s executive chamber, alleges that on December 7, 2020, he groped her at the governor’s mansion. After reporting the incident, she claims she faced retaliation—such as demotion and loss of responsibilities.
Multiple state and federal investigations substantiated key aspects of her claims, though criminal charges were dropped in 2022 due to insufficient evidence. State officials describe the payout as a cost-effective resolution of litigation, while Commisso and her legal team view it as a validation of her allegations.
Watch a report: Brittany Commisso speaks out about allegations against Cuomo
Fallout And Implications
Cuomo’s counsel labeled the settlement a strategic move to avoid further legal proceedings without admitting guilt. They also point to unsealed text messages that may challenge Commisso’s version of events. Advocacy groups criticize the settlement for resolving the matter financially without addressing underlying cultural and policy failures in public office.
With Cuomo pursuing a political comeback in New York City, the settlement rekindles scrutiny of his leadership traits and ethical standing. The episode underscores a broader question: can financial settlements deliver genuine accountability, or do they merely sidestep deeper systemic reform? As Cuomo seeks a return to public office, his capacity to confront past allegations may define his political viability.