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House Dems to Decide What to Do with Cuomo Campaign Cash

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By Benyamin Davidson

Embattled Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who will surrender his title as of August 24, was a prolific fundraiser even until weeks before his embarrassing resignation. Cuomo has long been supporting other moderate Democrats locally and around the country, and even played an important part in the party’s State Senate takeover in 2018.

Now as Gov. Cuomo makes his exit due to sexual misconduct allegations, Democratic lawmakers around the nation must decide if they will keep tens of thousands of dollars in campaign cash they received from the fallen politician. As reported by the NY Post, in 2018, during the crucial midterm elections, the “Cuomo NY Take Back The House” political action committee donated roughly $47,000 to high-profile House races across the U.S. in an effort to aid the Democratic Party to win the lower chamber from Republicans. Many democrats got funds, and those same Democrats have since made a point of calling on the governor to resign in March, but will they reject the funds they received from Gov. Cuomo, as “dirty money”?

Long Island State Sens. Todd Kaminsky and Jim Gaughran both received $22,000 from Cuomo’s campaign committee over the years. Three other NY State Senators received $11,000 each. Bronx state Sen. Gustavo Rivera got $5,000 from Cuomo in 2014, but he stood out from the pack when he said he would donate the funds “to a Bronx organization that provides assistance to victims of sexual assault.’

All over the country female candidates were bolstered to victory in tight races against Republicans, in what was called the “Year of the Woman.” Cuomo’s funds paid out $2000 at least half a dozen such contenders. All of those women have sided with victims of sexual misconduct, and avidly stand against such abuse. Only one, however, said she would renounce Cuomo cash, in response to the Post’s inquiry last week. Rep. Michelle Sherrill (D-NJ) said through her office that the funds were donated “immediately” after state Attorney General Letitia James’ damaging report was released. “The money was donated to a local New Jersey organization that works with vulnerable individuals and their families,” her office said, implying that the congresswoman paid it forward .

On Capitol Hill, many were more forgiving as to the status of the cash donations. “This is money that was accepted two campaign cycles and three calendar years ago. It was accepted before there were any allegations and you should not be expected to return it,” one annoyed House staffer told the Post.

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