Former Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s appearance before a congressional committee has reignited criticism of the Olson Group’s COVID-19 report and calls for a commission with subpoena power to investigate New York’s pandemic response. State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli described the report as insufficient, lacking hard data, and urged for a more thorough review.
Assemblymember Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas is sponsoring legislation to create a bipartisan commission focused on pandemic preparedness, including Cuomo’s controversial nursing home policies. She emphasized that subpoena power is essential for a comprehensive investigation.
Supporters, including Bill Hammond from the Empire Center, stress that New York’s trust in its government depends on transparent examination. Gov. Kathy Hochul’s office expressed a commitment to cooperation, citing the release of thousands of COVID-19-related documents, and vowed to review all legislative proposals.
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