New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo's top aide abruptly announced her resignation late Sunday, delivering the latest blow to an embattled governor who stands on the brink of impeachment amid a wide-ranging sexual harassment scandal. Melissa DeRosa, a longtime Cuomo aide who held the high-ranking title of secretary to the governor since 2017, issued a public statement around 9:30 p.m. Sunday confirming she was stepping down. The statement did not give a reason for her resignation, nor did it mention Cuomo by name.
"It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve the people of New York for the past 10 years," she said. "New Yorkers’ resilience, strength, and optimism through the most difficult times has inspired me every day." Her statement continued: "Personally, the past two years have been emotionally and mentally trying. I am forever grateful for the opportunity to have worked with such talented and committed colleagues on behalf of our state."
DeRosa's resignation comes as Cuomo is attempting to ward off calls for his ouster following the release of an 165-page report from Attorney General Letitia James' office that concluded he sexually harassed 11 women, including nine state employees. Until her departure, DeRosa, 38, had been one of the few remaining Cuomo loyalists to remain as part of his inner circle. DeRosa first joined Cuomo's administration in 2013 as communications director, quickly rising the ranks to chief of staff before she became secretary to the governor, which is the top non-elected position in New York state.
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