A collection of documents from the investigation of Andrew Cuomo have revealed the extensive involvement of his brother, CNN host Chris Cuomo, in the scandal.
Attorney General Letitia James made the documents and transcripts public on Monday, showing Chris Cuomo’s role in defending his brother against sexual misconduct allegations.
Materials show that Chris Cuomo used sources in the media for information on the governor’s accusers. He had previously claimed that all he did was “listen” and “offer my take”.
Text messages included in the collection show his conversations with top Cuomo aide Melissa DeRosa about how to respond to the allegations and his brother’s accusers. DeRosa had also asked Chris Cuomo to use his sources for information.
On March 7, DeRosa wrote “Rumor going around from politico 1-2 more ppl coming out tomorrow”. “Can u check your sources,” she added. Chris Cuomo responded “On it”. DeRosa also asked Cuomo about Ronan Farrow’s reporting on the scandal on March 15.
Documents also show Chris Cuomo critiquing a statement issued by his brother and sending DeRosa what he thought should have been the response.
In August, Chris Cuomo said on CNN “I never made calls to the press about my brother’s situation,” which is clearly not the case.
CNN was forced to produce a statement on the issue, saying “The thousands of pages of additional transcripts and exhibits that were released today by the NY Attorney General deserves a thorough review and consideration”. “We will be having conversations and seeking additional clarity about their significance as they relate to CNN over the next several days”.
Many are calling for Chris Cuomo to be fired from his position. Rolling Stone editor-in-chief Noah Schachtman wrote “If this story is accurate, it describes a series of shocking ethical breaches — fireable offenses at any other news outlet”.
Despite the recent controversy, Chris Cuomo continued his show Monday night, mainly focusing on the Omicron variant, smash-and-grab robberies across the country, and the feud between Reps. Ilhan Omar and Lauren Boebert.