In a formal agreement between the state executive chamber and the US justice department, it was revealed that the former New York governor Andrew Cuomo subjected at least 13 female government employees to a sexually hostile work environment. The agreement, which was released on Friday, stated that Cuomo had engaged in unwelcome sexual contact, ogling, sexual comments, and preferential treatment based on physical appearance.

Cuomo, who denied the accusations of sexual misconduct, resigned in August 2021 after New York Attorney General Letitia James concluded that 11 claims against him were credible. He was replaced by his lieutenant, Kathy Hochul. However, Cuomo is currently facing civil lawsuits from two accusers and is reportedly attempting to re-enter political life, although these efforts may be compromised by the findings of the justice department.

The investigation into Cuomo's actions was conducted by the federal civil rights division and the US attorney for the eastern district of New York, which began in August 2021. The settlement released on Friday revealed that Cuomo had created a sexually hostile work environment for at least 13 female employees, including those in the executive chamber. Additionally, it was found that senior staff members were aware of Cuomo's conduct and retaliated against four of the women who raised concerns.

The agreement outlined various reforms that would be implemented to address the issue, including the removal of employees who facilitated Cuomo's misconduct or engaged in unlawful retaliation against women. Hochul, who took office after Cuomo's resignation, has already taken action to address the culture of harassment in the executive chamber.

Despite the findings, Cuomo's lawyer, Rita Glavin, dismissed the settlement as nothing more than a political agreement with no actual investigation. Glavin reiterated Cuomo's denial of the allegations and emphasized that he did not sexually harass anyone.

On the other hand, Kristen Clarke, assistant attorney general in the civil rights division, highlighted the importance of creating a workplace free from sexual harassment and the need to protect employees who speak up against harassment. She characterized the conduct in Cuomo's executive chamber as particularly egregious due to the power differential involved and the lack of avenues for reporting and addressing harassment.

Hochul expressed her commitment to creating a safe workplace environment for all employees and stated that immediate action had been taken upon assuming office to address the culture of harassment that had plagued the executive chamber in the past.

The US attorney for the eastern district of New York, Breon Peace, expressed appreciation for Cuomo's determination to prevent the recurrence of sexual harassment at the highest level of New York state government.

The revelations of Cuomo's actions have brought significant attention and scrutiny to his previous tenure as governor and may have implications for his future political ambitions. The settlement underscores the importance of holding those in positions of power accountable for creating and maintaining a safe and respectful work environment for all employees.