Incoming New York governor speaks after Cuomo's resignation

New York Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul on Wednesday distanced herself from outgoing Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who resigned in disgrace a day earlier with impeachment looming following the release of a report that found he sexually harassed 11 women.

Hochul, a Buffalo native who is poised to become the state's first female governor, held her first news conference today since Cuomo announced he is stepping aside. Here are some key takeaways from her comments today:

Read more about today's remarks here.

CNN's Josiah Ryan and Kristina Sgueglia contributed reporting to this post.

Incoming New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said she’s prepared to run for reelection in 2022 during a one-on-one interview inside the state capitol with CNN’s Brynn Gingras

“It’s not the time to talk politics, but I’m prepared to run for reelection and begin the process as soon as we get everything under control in the state,” Hochul said.

She’s currently serving in her role as lieutenant governor until Gov. Andrew Cuomo leaves office in thirteen days.

Hochul, whose husband serves as senior vice president and general counsel of Delaware North, a Buffalo-based gambling and concessions company that has contracts with New York state, said that her team is re-examining the recusal policy currently in place. “We’re reexamining that to see if there’s anything that would change with my responsibilities changing,” Hochul said.

Hochul also made clear her husband, William Hochul, will not be involved in any dealings his company may have with the state.

Incoming New York Gov. Kathy Hochul continued to distance herself from the Cuomo administration when asked how she would overcome her association with it, however she defended its legacy of accomplishment.

“Many people have supported the policies of the Cuomo administration,” she reminded, adding “There is a strong legacy of accomplishment.”

“With respect to the particular environment, the reputation of the current administration, I think it’s pretty clear, that — it’s no secret — that we’ve not been close and I’ve not been associated with that.”

“I know the job, I fought for the same policies that’s why I’m more than prepared,” she continued.

She championed past pursuits including minimum wage, paid family leave, eradicating opioid abuse – an issue she says has touched her family personally – endeavors in clean energy, affordable housing, and economic development.

Hochul added that she expects to announce a new lieutenant governor in the next two weeks, and said she is cognizant of the need for diversity and an inclusive ticket, and plans to name someone who the state is familiar with and proud of.

When asked if she would release nursing home data – a point of controversy surrounding outgoing Gov. Andrew Cuomo – she said her administration will be “fully transparent” but added, “I am not governor yet.”

She did not elaborate and would not entertain a reporter’s question on whether she would pardon Cuomo if he were to be criminally charged.

Incoming New York governor Kathy Hochul said that while the new role was unexpected, she is prepared.

Giving her first news conference since Gov. Andrew Cuomo resigned Monday, Hochul said she spoke the governor yesterday and he "pledged his full support for a smooth transition."

She said she thanked Cuomo for his service to the state.

Hochul addressed Cuomo's decision to resign amid sexual harassment and assault allegations saying, "Regarding his decision to step down, I believe it is appropriate and in the best interests of the state of New York. While it was not expected, it is a day for which I am prepared."

The incoming governor said she has already spoken to the state assembly leadership and is preparing to fill cabinet positions. She also announced that she will travel the state to meet with New Yorkers and listen to their concerns.

Hochul is set to become the 57th governor of New York in 13 days.

The incoming governor of New York – and current Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul – took stock of the many challenges facing the Empire State today, noting that the fight against Covid-19, begun by outgoing Gov. Andrew Cuomo, is far from finished. 

"Make no mistake, our work has already begun," she said, briefing the media for the first time since Cuomo's resignation. "This year and a half has been so challenging for families and businesses across our state. Sometimes it doesn't feel like it's getting any easier." 

"It's going to take all of us working together to keep our children safe, our teachers safe, and anyone who works at a school safe," Hochul continued.

Hochul then went on to say she believed New Yorkers were up for the fight, saying, "I know New Yorkers. They are hardwired to persevere and to prevail."

"The promise I make to all New Yorkers right here and right now, I will fight like hell for you every single day, like I've always done and always will," she said, concluding her prepared remarks. 

New York Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul said she promises her incoming administration will not be described as "toxic" after the resignation of Gov. Andrew Cuomo.

Ana Liss, a former staffer of Cuomo, called the executive chamber "toxic, verbally abusive, retaliatory workplace, especially for young women like myself."

"I think it's very clear that the governor and I have not been close, physically or otherwise in terms of much time," Hochul said. "And so I've been traveling the state and do not spend much time in his presence or in the presence of many in the state Capitol. But that is what's being reported."

She said "there'll be turnover" in the governor's office.

Incoming New York governor, current Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul, addressing reporters Wednesday, said "people will soon learn my style is to listen first, then take decisive action."

She will deliver an address shortly after being appointed governor to lay out her vision, she said.

She acknowledged the challenging year it has been for New Yorkers with the Covid-19 pandemic, noting “the Delta variant is still raging, and it's going to take all of us to defeat it.”

Hochul said as the school year is around the corner, “its going to take all of us working together” to keep school populations safe.

Incoming New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said it's "far too premature" to talk about possibly pardoning Andrew Cuomo if he is convicted on any criminal charges.

Hochul, who will become governor in 13 days when Cuomo's resignation takes effect, was just asked if she would pardon Cuomo.

Remember: While a state investigation found that he sexually harassed multiple women, Cuomo has not been charged with any crime.

"I'm gonna tell you right now, I'm talking about my vision for the state of New York. It is far too premature to even have those conversations," she said.

New York Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul said the 14-day transition period for her to be sworn in as governor after Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced his resignation Tuesday was "not what I asked for."

"I have a vision, but I'm going to continue to develop that," she added.

Hochul added she plans on "coming back to a venue like this" to give updates to the press and New Yorkers.