Melissa DeRosa, top aide to New York Gov, resigns amid scandal

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo's top aide abruptly announced her resignation late Sunday, delivering the latest blow to an embattled governor who stands on the brink of impeachment amid a wide-ranging sexual harassment scandal, Report informs, citing TASS.

Melissa DeRosa, a longtime Cuomo aide who held the high-ranking title of secretary to the governor since 2017, issued a public statement around 9:30 p.m. Sunday confirming she was stepping down.

The statement did not give a reason for her resignation, nor did it mention Cuomo by name.

"It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve the people of New York for the past ten years," she said. "New Yorkers' resilience, strength, and optimism through the most difficult times have inspired me every day."

Her statement continued: "Personally, the past two years have been emotionally and mentally trying. I am forever grateful for the opportunity to have worked with such talented and committed colleagues on behalf of our state."

DeRosa's resignation comes as Cuomo attempts to ward off calls for his ouster following the release of a 165-page report from Attorney General Letitia James' office that concluded he sexually harassed 11 women, including nine state employees.