‘No blindsiding,’ Hochul vows as she takes helm in New York

Associated Press and WHEC-TV

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ALBANY, N.Y. (WHEC) — New York Gov. Kathy Hochul Tuesday morning held a swearing-ceremony as part of her first day in office.

Hochul was officially sworn in at midnight Tuesday following the resignation of now-former Governor Andrew Cuomo following allegations of sexual harassment against him.

Hochul, a western New York native, became the first female governor of the state.

The ceremony began at 10 a.m. During the roughly 10 minute ceremony, Hochul took some questions and promised a "fresh, collaborative approach" in state government. She noted that she’d already begun speaking with leaders with who Cuomo was famous for feuding, including New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio.

[AP Photo/Hans Pennink, Pool]

Watch the swearing-in ceremony in the video player below. Mobile users, click here.

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Hochul said she also spoke to President Joe Biden, who voiced his support for her.

In a statement, Monroe County Executive Adam Bello said:

"History was made this morning as Kathy Hochul was sworn in as New York’s first female Governor. Governor Hochul is no stranger to Monroe County and has always been responsive and ready to help during her service as Lt. Governor. Just recently, I had the honor of introducing Governor Hochul at a summit on gun violence. We have had in-depth discussions on issues of importance to Monroe County such as COVID-19 response, crime, and the gun violence plaguing our communities. I know with her strong roots in Western New York, she will be a strong partner and advocate for us in Albany. Welcome, Governor Hochul."

Monroe County Planning and Development Department head Ana Liss, who accused Cuomo of inappropriate workplace behavior Tweeted out her support for Hochul.