The state of New York has agreed to pay $450,000 to settle a lawsuit filed by Brittany Commisso, an ex-aide to former Governor Andrew Cuomo. Commisso alleges that Cuomo sexually harassed and groped her during his time in office, and the settlement seeks to address these accusations, which are part of a broader array of similar claims that ultimately led to Cuomo's resignation in 2021.
In her lawsuit, Commisso claimed that she suffered from sexual harassment from the then-governor, as well as retaliation for reporting these incidents. Her legal representation stated that the settlement “is a complete vindication of her claims,” emphasizing that Commisso is relieved to move forward with her life after the turmoil associated with these allegations.
This settlement arrives amidst Cuomo's ongoing political ambitions as he attempts a comeback by running for mayor of New York City. Despite losing the Democratic primary to Zohran Mamdani by a significant margin, Cuomo has relaunched his campaign as an independent candidate. This decision presents challenges in a city that predominantly supports Democrat candidates and is currently rallying behind Mamdani.
Throughout this campaign, Cuomo, who maintains his innocence, has faced scrutiny due to allegations of sexual misconduct. His legal team described the settlement as a “capitulation to avoid the truth,” arguing that it does not vindicate Cuomo but rather undermines the opportunity to fully address Commisso’s claims. The attorneys, Rita Glavin and Theresa Trzaskoma, have expressed strong opposition to the dismissal of Commisso's lawsuit, insisting that the truth should be fully revealed before any resolution is declared.
Cuomo, who resigned from the governorship following a report by the state attorney general, which identified that he had sexually harassed at least 11 women, has consistently denied any wrongdoing. The allegations against him included unwanted kissing and touching, as well as inappropriate comments regarding women’s appearances and personal lives.
Commisso initiated her lawsuit in late 2023, just before the cessation of the Adult Survivors Act, which temporarily lifted the time limitations for filing civil suits related to sexual assault claims. Additionally, Commisso had previously filed a criminal complaint alleging that Cuomo groped her; however, local district attorneys opted against prosecution, citing insufficient evidence to support the claim.
Anthony Hogrebe, speaking on behalf of current Governor Kathy Hochul, expressed satisfaction with the settlement, emphasizing that this resolution minimizes further financial strain on taxpayers. The implications of this case resonate not only politically for Cuomo but also in the evolving discussion regarding accountability and support for survivors of sexual assault in the workplace.
