Head of Cuomo impeachment investigation warns against criticizing AG

WNYT Staff

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There’s a warning from the lawmaker at the head of the Assembly impeachment investigation of Gov. Cuomo.

Assemblyman Charles Lavine sent a letter, warning against criticizing Attorney General Letitia James’ separate investigation.

The AG is looking into sexual harassment allegations against the governor.

The governor’s spokesman, Rich Azzopardi, has tweeted about the investigation.

Most recently, he pointed out leaks, after reports of the governor sitting down with investigators became public.

In a statement, Lavine said, "I am extraordinarily concerned with respect to the governor’s communications director’s verbal attack against the attorney general. Demeaning the attorney general in turn demeans the attorney general’s investigation and at the same time sends an obviously intimidating message to potential witnesses."

Cuomo’s acting counsel, Beth Garvey responded, saying, "There is a clear difference between actionable retaliation and protected speech and it is clear that the chairman doesn’t understand the difference."