History of Andrew Cuomo in Timeline

Andrew Mark Cuomo is an American lawyer and politician who served as the 56th Governor of New York from 2011 to 2021. A Democrat and son of former Governor Mario Cuomo, his tenure ended in resignation following multiple sexual harassment allegations. Currently, Cuomo is pursuing an independent candidacy for Mayor of New York City, having been defeated in the Democratic primary by Zohran Mamdani.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

1968: Cuomo's 1968 Pontiac GTO

Cuomo drives a 1968 Pontiac GTO with a New York license plate reading "1" and a Dodge Charger. The Pontiac GTO was manufactured in 1968.

June 9, 1990: Cuomo marries Kerry Kennedy

On June 9, 1990, Cuomo married Kerry Kennedy, the seventh child of Robert F. Kennedy and Ethel Skakel Kennedy.

1995: Birth of twins Cara Ethel Kennedy-Cuomo and Mariah Matilda Kennedy-Cuomo

In 1995, twins Cara Ethel Kennedy-Cuomo and Mariah Matilda Kennedy-Cuomo, daughters of Andrew Cuomo and Kerry Kennedy, were born.

Others born on this day/year

1997: Birth of Michaela Andrea Kennedy-Cuomo

In 1997, Michaela Andrea Kennedy-Cuomo, daughter of Andrew Cuomo and Kerry Kennedy, was born.

Others born on this day/year

2003: Cuomo and Kennedy Separate

In 2003, Cuomo and Kerry Kennedy separated.

2005: Divorce of Cuomo and Kennedy

In 2005, Cuomo and Kerry Kennedy divorced.

2005: Cuomo begins dating Sandra Lee

In 2005, Cuomo began dating Food Network host Sandra Lee.

June 24, 2011: Cuomo signs the Marriage Equality Act

On June 24, 2011, Andrew Cuomo signed the Marriage Equality Act, introducing homosexual marriage, following an "intense public and private lobbying campaign".

July 16, 2011: Cuomo finalizes deal with Public Employees Federation

On July 16, 2011, Andrew Cuomo finalized a five-year deal with the Public Employees Federation to end pay raises, implement furlough days, and require additional contributions to health insurance accounts.

July 25, 2011: Lawsuit filed against the Marriage Equality Act

On July 25, 2011, a lawsuit was filed in the New York Supreme Court seeking an injunction against the Marriage Equality Act.

2011: Cuomo restructures New York State tax code

In 2011, Andrew Cuomo was praised for his restructuring of the New York State tax code.

2011: Cuomo and Lee move in together

In 2011, Cuomo and Sandra Lee moved in together in Westchester County, New York.

June 2012: Cuomo administration considers lifting ban on fracking

In June 2012, the Cuomo administration said it was considering lifting a state ban on hydraulic fracturing (fracking) to stimulate the economy in upstate New York.

October 2012: Cuomo responds to Hurricane Sandy

In October 2012, after Hurricane Sandy, Andrew Cuomo allowed New York voters to cast provisional ballots anywhere in the state and appointed a commission to examine the responses of New York utilities to damage caused by the storm.

December 14, 2012: Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting

December 14, 2012, marked the date of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in neighboring Connecticut, an event that spurred gun control debates and legislation.

2012: Cuomo states goal to reduce public employee pensions

In an interview with The New York Times, Andrew Cuomo stated his top goal in 2012 is the reduction of public employee pensions.

January 15, 2013: Cuomo signs NY SAFE Act into law

On January 15, 2013, Andrew Cuomo signed the NY SAFE Act into law, the first state gun control bill to pass after the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. It was described as the toughest gun control law in the United States.

June 20, 2013: New York State Assembly passed the Women's Equality Act

On June 20, 2013, the New York State Assembly passed the Women's Equality Act, which included 10 component bills related to issues like domestic violence, human trafficking, and pregnancy discrimination. However, the Reproductive Health Act, the tenth bill, faced opposition in the State Senate.

July 5, 2013: Cuomo signs amendment to NY SAFE Act

On July 5, 2013, Andrew Cuomo signed an amendment to the NY SAFE Act that exempts retired police officers from some of the act's ownership restrictions.

January 2014: Cuomo announces executive order on medical marijuana

In January 2014, Andrew Cuomo announced an executive order to allow the limited use of medical marijuana in New York.

January 17, 2014: Cuomo interviewed on WCNY's The Capital Pressroom

On January 17, 2014, Andrew Cuomo was interviewed by Susan Arbetter on WCNY's The Capital Pressroom.

May 2014: NY State Democratic Committee reiterates Cuomo's remarks

In May 2014, the New York State Democratic Committee, headed by Andrew Cuomo, reiterated his remarks in a statement responding to a speech by Rob Astorino, who was running against him in the 2014 gubernatorial election.

July 5, 2014: Cuomo signs the Compassionate Care Act

On July 5, 2014, Governor Andrew Cuomo signed the Compassionate Care Act into law, legalizing medical cannabis in New York State with some restrictions.

July 2014: Report of the Moreland Commission Investigation

In July 2014, reports surfaced that the Moreland Commission, established by Cuomo to combat political corruption, was directed away from potentially damaging investigations. Cuomo later disbanded the commission.

December 17, 2014: Cuomo administration bans hydraulic fracturing

On December 17, 2014, the Cuomo administration announced a ban on hydraulic fracturing in New York State, citing significant public health risks.

2014: Start-Up NY business tax incentive program initiated

In 2014, the Start-Up NY business tax incentive program was initiated.

July 4, 2015: Cuomo presides over Billy Joel's wedding ceremony

On July 4, 2015, Cuomo presided over the wedding ceremony of his longtime friend Billy Joel to his fourth wife, Alexis Roderick.

July 2016: Report indicates Start-Up NY generated 408 jobs

In July 2016, the Empire State Development Corporation released a report indicating that the state's flagship business tax incentive program, Start-Up NY, had generated 408 jobs since its inception in 2014.

September 2016: Joseph Percoco Indictment in Buffalo Billion Bribery Investigation

In September 2016, Joseph Percoco, a close friend and former top aide to Cuomo, was indicted as part of a bribery investigation related to the Buffalo Billion project. Several developers who were major donors to Cuomo and other state politicians were also indicted. Cuomo was not accused of any wrongdoing.

February 2017: Cuomo opposes legalizing recreational cannabis

As recently as February 2017, Andrew Cuomo stated his opposition to legalizing the recreational use of cannabis, calling it a "gateway drug."

April 18, 2017: Cuomo signs New York State 2018 fiscal year budget

On April 18, 2017, Andrew Cuomo signed the New York State 2018 fiscal year budget which included the Excelsior Scholarship.

May 2017: Sherry Vill alleges Cuomo kissed her inappropriately

In May 2017, Sherry Vill, a New York constituent whose flood-damaged house Cuomo had visited, alleged that Cuomo had inappropriately kissed her twice on her cheek during that visit.

June 2017: Cuomo declares state of emergency for NYC subway system

In June 2017, after a series of subway disasters, Andrew Cuomo declared a "state of emergency" for the New York City Subway system.

August 2017: Cuomo administration awards grants to New York colleges

In August 2017, the Cuomo administration awarded more than $7 million in grants, financed with money from bank settlements, to New York colleges to offer courses to New York prisoners.

2017: Cuomo announces closure of Indian Point nuclear plant

In 2017, Andrew Cuomo announced that the Indian Point nuclear plant, which produced one quarter of New York City's power, would be closed.

January 2018: Cuomo proposes reforms to the criminal justice system

In January 2018, Andrew Cuomo proposed reforms that would reduce delays during trials, ban asset seizures in cases where there has been no conviction, and make it easier for former convicts to get a job after leaving prison. He also called for an end to cash bail for minor crimes.

March 2018: Joseph Percoco Convicted on Felony Charges

In March 2018, Joseph Percoco was convicted on felony charges of solicitation of bribes and honest services fraud, related to bribes he took from individuals seeking official favors on behalf of an energy company. Cuomo stated he would respect the jury's verdict and that there is no tolerance for any violation of the public trust.

April 2, 2018: New legislation prevents domestic abusers from possessing firearms

On April 2, 2018, Andrew Cuomo announced the passage of new legislation that prevents those who have been convicted of domestic violence from possessing any kind of firearms and losing their gun license.

April 2018: Cuomo announces restoration of voting rights for parolees

In April 2018, Andrew Cuomo announced that he would restore the voting rights of parolees through an executive order.

September 2018: Joseph Percoco Sentenced to Prison

In September 2018, Judge Valerie Caproni sentenced Joseph Percoco to 6 years in prison for his felony convictions. Percoco was convicted of solicitation of bribes and honest services fraud earlier in March 2018.

December 2018: Cuomo announces support for legalizing recreational cannabis

In December 2018, Andrew Cuomo announced his support for legalizing the recreational use of cannabis, reversing his previous opposition.

2018: Excelsior Scholarship provision in effect

In 2018, the New York State fiscal year budget signed by Andrew Cuomo went into effect and included the Excelsior Scholarship, a provision that families making less than $125,000 could have free tuition at SUNY and CUNY universities.

2018: Cuomo responds to lawsuit against NYCHA

In the winter of 2018, Andrew Cuomo responded to a class-action lawsuit brought against the New York City Housing Authority. By early April, Cuomo appointed an independent monitor to oversee NYCHA on an emergency basis.

January 22, 2019: Cuomo signed the Reproductive Health Act

On January 22, 2019, Andrew Cuomo signed the 2019 version of the Reproductive Health Act after Democrats gained control of the state Senate. To celebrate, Cuomo ordered One World Trade Center and other landmarks to be lit in pink, sparking criticism from conservatives and the Catholic cardinal Timothy Dolan.

February 25, 2019: Cuomo signs 'red flag' gun protection law

On February 25, 2019, Andrew Cuomo signed the "red flag" gun protection law, allowing a court to temporarily prohibit someone from buying or possessing a gun if they are deemed a threat to themselves or others.

May 30, 2019: Cuomo signs repeal of 'gravity knife' ban

On May 30, 2019, Andrew Cuomo signed into law a repeal of the Penal Code provision that had listed the 'gravity knife' as a prohibited weapon. This followed a court decision declaring the ban unconstitutional.

July 30, 2019: Cuomo signs laws banning 3D printed guns and requiring safe firearm storage

On July 30, 2019, Andrew Cuomo signed two laws banning the manufacture and sale of 3D printed guns and requiring safe storage of firearms when children younger than 16 years of age live in a gun owner's home.

September 2019: Anna Ruch Encountered Cuomo at a Wedding Reception

In September 2019, Anna Ruch encountered Cuomo socially at a wedding reception where he allegedly touched her without consent on her bare lower back while posing for a photograph. She said the incident made her feel "uncomfortable and embarrassed". In March 2021, Ruch came forward alleging the incident.

September 25, 2019: Cuomo and Lee end relationship

On September 25, 2019, Cuomo and Sandra Lee announced that they had ended their relationship.

2019: Income limit for Excelsior Scholarship specified

By 2019, families making less than $125,000 in income could have free tuition at all SUNY and CUNY universities through the Excelsior Scholarship.

March 2020: New York State Department of Health Issued Order on Nursing Home Admissions

In March 2020, Cuomo and the New York State Department of Health issued an order on March 25 requiring nursing homes to admit patients regardless of COVID test result and prohibiting testing of prospective patients. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services had already issued a directive that nursing homes should admit anyone they would normally admit, including people coming from hospitals where COVID-19 was present.

March 2020: Scrutiny of Chris Cuomo's Positive Covid-19 Test

In March 2020, particular scrutiny went to the positive test of Cuomo's brother Chris amid other conflicts of interest that commentators saw in their relationship. In March 2021, allegations came out that Cuomo prioritized COVID-19 tests for his family and other associates during the early stages of the pandemic when tests were limited.

June 2020: COVID-19 Deaths in New York Nursing Homes

As of June 2020, more than 6,000 New York state nursing home residents had died of COVID-19. This followed a March 2020 order that required nursing homes to admit patients regardless of COVID test result and prohibited testing of prospective patients. By the time the order was undone, on May 10, as many as 4,500 COVID-19 infected patients had been sent to nursing homes in New York state.

July 2020: Report on Nursing Home Admissions

In July 2020, the Cuomo administration issued a report concluding that most nursing home admissions took place after peak nursing home mortality, which suggested that it was nursing home staff that drove infections.

November 2020: Cuomo receives International Emmy Founders Award

In November 2020, Andrew Cuomo was awarded the International Emmy Founders Award by the International Academy of Television Arts and Sciences in recognition of his coronavirus briefings.

November 2020: Unnamed aide claims Cuomo groped her at the governor's mansion

In November 2020, an unnamed aide claimed that after being summoned to the governor's mansion, Cuomo allegedly groped her after rising from his desk. The aide said that when she told him it would get him in trouble, Cuomo shut the door and said "I don't care," and then groped one of her breasts over her bra by reaching under her blouse.

December 13, 2020: Lindsey Boylan Accused Cuomo of Sexual Harassment

On December 13, 2020, Lindsey Boylan, a former aide, alleged that Cuomo had sexually harassed her for years. She stated that he "exists without ethics," "takes advantage of people," and ran a "toxic team environment."

January 2021: Report on Undercounted Covid-19 Deaths

In January 2021, State attorney general Letitia James's report found that the administration undercounted COVID-19-related deaths at nursing homes by as much as 50%. This was due to discounting nursing home patients who died after being taken to a hospital rather than within the nursing home itself.

January 29, 2021: Cuomo states he does not trust health officials' expertise

During a press conference on January 29, 2021, Andrew Cuomo stated that he did not trust the expertise of health officials.

February 2021: Lindsey Boylan Elaborated on Accusations

In February 2021, Lindsey Boylan elaborated on her accusations against Cuomo, claiming he goaded her to play strip poker with him in 2017 and forcibly kissed her on the mouth in his Manhattan office. The governor's office denied Boylan's claims.

February 27, 2021: Charlotte Bennett Accused Cuomo of Sexual Harassment

On February 27, 2021, Charlotte Bennett, an executive assistant and health policy advisor of Cuomo, accused him of sexual harassment. She alleged that he asked her about her sex life on several occasions in late spring 2020 and if she had been in sexual relationships with older men. Cuomo denied making advances to Bennett and acting inappropriately towards her.

March 1, 2021: Attorney General Instructed to Proceed with Investigation of Cuomo

On March 1, 2021, Cuomo's senior counsel and special adviser Beth Garvey instructed New York Attorney General Letitia James to proceed with an independent investigation of Cuomo. On the same day, a third woman, Anna Ruch, came forward alleging Cuomo had sexually harassed her and touched her without consent on her bare lower back while posing for a photograph.

March 11, 2021: New York Assembly Approves Impeachment Investigation

On March 11, 2021, the New York Assembly approved a separate impeachment investigation into the sexual misconduct allegations made against Cuomo.

March 2021: Allegations of Prioritized COVID-19 Tests

In March 2021, allegations surfaced that Cuomo prioritized COVID-19 tests for his family and associates during the early stages of the pandemic when tests were limited. His brother Chris' positive test in March 2020 also faced scrutiny.

March 31, 2021: Recreational cannabis legalized in New York

On March 31, 2021, Andrew Cuomo officially legalized recreational use of cannabis with the signing into law of the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act.

July 7, 2021: Cuomo declares disaster emergency on gun crime

On July 7, 2021, Andrew Cuomo declared the first 'disaster emergency' in the United States on gun crime for New York.

August 3, 2021: Attorney General releases report concluding Cuomo sexually harassed 11 women

On August 3, 2021, Attorney General James's five-month investigation concluded with the release of a report. This report concluded that during Cuomo's time in office, he sexually harassed 11 women, including unwanted groping, kissing and sexual comments, and also found that Cuomo's office had engaged in illegal retaliation against Boylan for her allegation against him.

August 10, 2021: Cuomo Announces Resignation as Governor of New York

On August 10, 2021, despite denying all allegations of sexual harassment, Cuomo announced that he would step down as Governor of New York, effective August 24.

September 1, 2021: Cuomo files for state retirement pension

On September 1, 2021, Cuomo filed for a state retirement pension, to be effective based on 14.56 years of state service as attorney general and governor.

October 28, 2021: Cuomo to be charged with misdemeanor sex crime

On October 28, 2021, a spokesman for the state court system announced that Cuomo would be charged with a misdemeanor sex crime in the Albany City Court.

November 16, 2021: JCOPE Revoked Authorization for Cuomo's Book Publication

On November 16, 2021, the JCOPE revoked its prior authorization for Cuomo to publish his book, citing the use of state staff, buildings, and resources in writing, editing, and publishing. Cuomo and his spokesperson denied any wrongdoing.

December 14, 2021: Cuomo ordered to pay New York state $5.1 million in book profits

On December 14, 2021, the Joint Commission on Public Ethics ordered Andrew Cuomo to pay New York state $5.1 million in profits from his book, "American Crisis". The commission stated that Cuomo used state resources to write the book.

December 23, 2021: Nassau County District Attorney declines filing criminal charges

On December 23, 2021, Nassau County District Attorney Joyce Smith declined filing criminal charges against Cuomo.

December 28, 2021: Westchester County District Attorney declines to issue criminal charges

On December 28, 2021, the Westchester County District Attorney declined to issue criminal charges against Cuomo, citing "statutory requirements" of New York.

2021: Cuomo signs tax increase on high-income workers and corporations

In 2021, Andrew Cuomo signed a tax increase on high-income workers and corporations worth over one million dollars, hoping that the Federal cap on state and local tax deductions will be repealed.

January 4, 2022: Albany County District Attorney Drops Criminal Complaint Against Cuomo

On January 4, 2022, Albany County District Attorney David Soares dropped a criminal complaint against Cuomo and also announced that Cuomo would not face any other charges related to other groping allegations, citing lack of evidence.

January 13, 2022: Deadline for Cuomo to return book proceeds

January 13, 2022, was the deadline for Andrew Cuomo to return the proceeds from his book as ordered by the Joint Commission on Public Ethics.

January 31, 2022: Final sexual misconduct case against Cuomo is dropped

On January 31, 2022, the fifth and final sexual misconduct case against Cuomo, made by Virginia Limmiatis, was dropped by Oswego district attorney Gregory Oakes, effectively clearing him of all charges.

March 3, 2022: Cuomo gives public speech, hints at political comeback

On March 3, 2022, during Cuomo's first public appearance since his resignation, he gave a speech at the God's Battalion of Prayer church in Brooklyn, spoke out against cancel culture, and hinted at a political comeback.

March 14, 2022: Cuomo announces creation of "Progressives for Israel"

On March 14, 2022, at an event to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, Cuomo announced his plans to create an organization that will be called "Progressives for Israel", amidst speculation that Cuomo intended to run in the 2024 United States Senate election in New York.

August 2022: Cuomo wins lawsuit, permitted to keep book proceeds

In August 2022, the state appellate court upheld a lower court decision finding that New York's ethics watchdog commission was unconstitutional. As a result, Andrew Cuomo won his lawsuit and was permitted to keep the proceeds from the sale of his book.

2022: New York State Attorney General Attempts to Prevent State from Paying Cuomo's Legal Fees

In 2022, the New York State Attorney General attempted to prevent the state from being required to pay for a portion of Cuomo's legal fees relating to the sexual misconduct scandal, but Cuomo successfully sued the AG, claiming that the state was required to pay for those legal fees.

February 2023: Cuomo criticizes President Biden

In February 2023, Andrew Cuomo criticized President Biden over the problems stemming from the Mexican border and migrants being displaced within the United States.

May 2023: Supreme Court Overturns Percoco's Bribery Conviction

In May 2023, the Supreme Court unanimously overturned Joseph Percoco's bribery conviction. He was initially convicted in March 2018 and sentenced to 6 years in prison in September 2018.

September 11, 2023: New York State Supreme Court Ruled in Cuomo's Favor

On September 11, 2023, the New York State Supreme Court ruled in Cuomo's favor, claiming that the new commission was unconstitutional. The court's reasoning was that the constitution will not permit those powers to be transferred to (an) independent commission amounting to an unsanctioned fourth branch of government

November 24, 2023: Commisso files sexual harassment lawsuit against Cuomo

On November 24, 2023, Brittany Commisso filed a lawsuit against Cuomo alleging sexual harassment under the New York Adult Survivors Act, claiming inappropriate interactions, actions by Cuomo, and retaliation. Cuomo's attorney responded claiming that Commisso's claims were false and an attempt at a "cash-grab".

October 2024: U.S. House Subcommittee Finds Evidence of Report Tampering

In October 2024, a U.S. House of Representatives select subcommittee found overwhelming evidence that Cuomo reviewed, edited, and drafted portions of a New York State Department of Health report. This report was used to combat criticism of his Administration’s pandemic-era nursing home policies. The subcommittee stated that the report low-balled nursing home fatalities and blamed nursing home staff for causing excess COVID-19 deaths.

2024: Speculation about Cuomo Running for Senate in 2024

In March 14, 2022, amidst speculation that Cuomo intended to run in the 2024 United States Senate election in New York, Cuomo announced his plans to create an organization that will be called "Progressives for Israel".

January 7, 2025: Trial Hearings Started in New York State High Court of Appeals

On January 7, 2025, trial hearings started in the New York State High Court of Appeals. These hearings are regarding Cuomo's appeal against the investigation by the new commission. Government advocate Rachel Fauss stated that if the court were to side with previous rulings, it would mean the end of ethics enforcement in the state.

February 18, 2025: Top Court Declared New Commission Constitutional

On February 18, 2025, the top court declared that the new commission is constitutional, and thus the probe on Cuomo's book continues.

March 1, 2025: Cuomo announces candidacy in the 2025 New York City mayoral election

On March 1, 2025, Cuomo announced his candidacy in the 2025 New York City mayoral election. Cuomo emphasized public safety and housing affordability in his campaign and branded himself as a progressive because he passed liberal policies.

March 2025: Costs relating to investigations and legal cases from Cuomo's scandals reach $61 million

According to the Comptroller of New York State, the total costs relating to the investigations and legal cases from Cuomo's multiple scandals, had reached around $61 million by March 2025.

March 2025: Cuomo raises campaign funds and forms a third party

During the first 13 days of his mayoral candidacy in March 2025, Cuomo raised funds from 2,821 donors and formed a third party named "Fight and Deliver" to give himself a second ballot line.

March 17, 2025: Cuomo surpasses $1.51 million in fundraising

As of March 17, 2025, Cuomo surpassed $1.51 million in fundraising for his mayoral campaign.

March 21, 2025: Cuomo sues the state comptroller

On March 21, 2025, Cuomo opened a new lawsuit against the state comptroller after the comptroller rejected paying for a separate case against the AG that was dismissed by the court a month before. Cuomo claims that he is entitled for the state to pay for his case because it involves activity that occurred when he was in office.

May 7, 2025: Cuomo files to run as an independent on the Fight and Deliver Party ticket

On May 7, 2025, Cuomo filed to also run as an independent on the Fight and Deliver Party ticket.

May 2025: Department of Justice Opened an Investigation into Cuomo's Testimony

In May 2025, the Department of Justice opened an investigation into Cuomo's testimony to Congress after it was found that the statements distancing himself from the tampering of the report were "demonstrably false."

July 14, 2025: Cuomo confirms he will campaign as an independent

On July 14, 2025, Cuomo confirmed he would campaign as an independent after conceding the race for the Democratic nomination.

2025: Legal cost issue becomes a major talking point in the 2025 New York City Democratic mayoral primary

In 2025, the issue over the legal and investigative costs has become a major talking point by Cuomo's opponents in the 2025 New York City Democratic mayoral primary, and a new bill was proposed in the state legislature.