Erie County Legislators Joe Lorigo, John Mills, Chris Greene and Frank Todaro are calling for an independent investigation into sexual harassment claims against Governor Cuomo. Two former aides to Governor Cuomo have come forward both accusing him of intimidation and sexual harassment.

The Minority Caucus is specifically asking for Attorney General Letitia James to lead the investigation, for the investigators to have subpoena power and for testimony to be under oath.

Members in both the State Senate and State Assembly have also asked for a full independent investigation of all accusations against Governor Cuomo. Sunday evening, Governor Cuomo acknowledged the accusations with the following statement, “At work sometimes I think I am being playful and make jokes that I think are funny. I do, on occasion, tease people in what I think is a good natured way. I do it in public and in private. You have seen me do it at briefings hundreds of times. I have teased people are their personal lives, their relationships and about getting married or not getting married. I mean no offense and only attempt to add some levity and banter to what is a serious business.”

Legislator Lorigo said, “These are serious allegations and the Governor should be held accountable. By attempting to appoint his own investigator, the Governor shows the hubris he is known for.  However, I'm happy to see a bipartisan call for a thorough and completely independent investigation.   The alleged victims deserve a fair investigation of their claims. As lawmakers, we must do everything possible to make sure justice is served appropriately.”

Legislator Mills said, “When someone comes forward with serious allegations like what we are seeing here—we need to make sure we are doing everything in our power to make sure a proper, independent investigation is executed. We must take this seriously and move forward with this as soon as possible.”

Legislator Greene said, “An independent investigation is absolutely necessary in this situation. Sexual harassment allegations are not something to take lightly. Senator Liz Krueger cautions against the use of Joint Commission of Ethics as the primary way to conduct the investigation and I do as well. The Attorney General should lead the investigation, her office should have the ability to subpoena individuals, and all testimony should be under oath.”

Legislator Todaro said, “Whether Governor Cuomo meant offense by his ‘teasing’ or not, those who came forward with their accusations viewed his comments and actions as harassment. This type of behavior cannot be tolerated anywhere. That is why I am calling for a full and complete independent investigation into these allegations to make sure we have all of the information and details necessary to come to a fair conclusion.”