Kathy Hochul sworn in as New York’s first female governor

Kathy Hochul has become New York’s first female governor.

The Democrat from western New York assumed the office at the stroke of midnight Tuesday.

She’s taking control of a state government desperate to get back to business after months of distractions over sexual harassment allegations against Andrew Cuomo.

Cuomo submitted his resignation letter late Monday. His resignation comes weeks after a report commissioned by state attorney general Letitia James found that he sexually harassed 11 women, including staff members.

“We didn’t always get it quite right. But I want you to know, from the bottom of my heart, that every day, I worked my hardest, I gave it my all, and I tried my best to deliver for you. And that is the God’s honest truth,” Cuomo said Monday in farewell remarks.

Hochul’s ascent to the top job comes as the state is dealing with a rising number of COVID-19 cases and an economy still hurting from the pandemic.

“Honored to be officially sworn in as New York’s 57th Governor,” Hochul tweeted early Tuesday morning. “Looking forward to the full swearing-in ceremony with my family later this morning, and addressing the people of New York later today.”

Hochul has promised more transparency in state government as well as a more welcoming workplace for her staff.

“No one will describe my office as a toxic work environment,” Hochul said at a press conference earlier this month.

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