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Rauber Hill Sunrise, by Mel Hunt

Transition in Albany: Cuomo Starts Moving Out, Hochul Starts Working

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From the Editor, 8/20/21, Image of Executive Mansion from Albany.org

The Uhaul vans have started showing up the Executive Mansion, the Governor’s home in Albany NY. Andrew Cuomo is moving out after more than a decade of leading the state executive branch, resigning in disgrace. As Cuomo concludes his reign over the Empire State, he is busy granting pardons and trying to avoid being banished for life from NY politics. He had this to say about the clemency actions:

“These 10 clemencies are another step on the long march towards a more fair, more just, more equitable, and more empathetic New York,” he continued. “I thank all the volunteer attorneys representing clemency applicants for their dedication and service to the cause of justice and rehabilitation.”

On the other end of the NY power spectrum, soon-to-be Governor Kathy Hochul is already working on major policy issues. Special interests and community groups are pushing some of the major agenda items left in limbo by the political crisis created by Cuomo. Covid-19 and the “Delta variant,” are becoming more complicated by the day. The confusing layers of federal guidance and ever-changing data point to the challenges Hochul will face on day one off her historic move to Governor.

As the states first female Governor, Hochul comes to power on the heels of a sexual harassment scandal that forced Cuomo to resign. That reality has put the Adult Survivors Act into Hochul’s hands as advocates push for the law to pass, making it easier for survivors of sexual assault to come forward and press charges with less red tape. Another related measure seeks to protect NYS employees from sexual harassment in the workplace.

Hochul has already announced a major policy push to assist the refugees exiting Afghanistan to escape Taliban rule. The future Governor has been working with both parties in the state legislature to being accepting refugees as soon as possible.

The new Governor of New York will be sworn into office on Tuesday August 24th. Read our previous coverage on Hochul below:

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