Vanquished ex-Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s legal tirade continues, this time against the state ethics panel, again
Former Governor Andrew Cuomo has again managed to slow the state ethics panel’s inquiry into his $5 million COVID‑19 book deal. In an Albany County Supreme Court ruling, the Commission on Ethics and Lobbying and Government (COELIG) was granted a temporary restraining order, putting its probe of the memoir “American Crisis” on hold after Cuomo filed suit this week.
Cuomo’s lawyers say that the protracted legal wrangle over whether state employees assisted him and whether he had the proper approval finally infringed on the former governor’s due‑process rights, freedom of speech, and the Seventh Amendment. His attorney, Rita Glavin, quoted in the 45‑page complaint: “As demonstrated herein, COELIG is continuing to perpetuate the same illegal JCOPE conduct that occurred just before its abolishment, and which was condemned by this Court.” The brief further argues that COELIG has ignored statutory requirements, violating court directions and the governor’s constitutional protections.
Both sides will meet for oral arguments on April 30. Cuomo’s spokesperson, Rich Azzopardi, declined to comment but reiterated that staff from his office voluntarily supported the book.
Previously, in February, the New York Court of Appeals ruled 4‑3 against Cuomo in a separate case in which he sought the dissolution of COELIG, alleging the panel was unconstitutional. Justice Marcelle had initially sided with Cuomo, but the decision was later reversed. A COELIG representative has not commented on the pending litigation.
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