Kathy Hochul Sworn In As New York Governor Before Ceremonial Inauguration Tuesday
ALBANY, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- Kathy Hochul became New York's first female governor during a private, midnight swearing-in ceremony Tuesday.
But while the sun was setting on Andrew Cuomo's term, Hochul quietly prepared for one of the most important moments of her political career, CBS2's Jessica Layton reported Monday.
The Buffalo native is taking over as the state faces a number of crisis situations, like getting COVID under control, major MTA problems and the state eviction moratorium expiring at the end of the month.
According to Albany insiders, Layton reported, there will not be pomp and circumstance around Hochul's inauguration - that's not her style.
Hochul spent her last day as lieutenant governor tweeting about the Pfizer vaccine getting full approval, saying "Let's vax up NY!"
Great News—anyone who was waiting on FDA approval - it's done!
— Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) August 23, 2021
To anyone who needed that final push—check out link to locations of Pfizer vaccine near you. Let's vax up NY!https://t.co/pXG2dHfz3B
Cuomo's resignation took effect at 11:59 p.m. Monday.
There will be a ceremonial swearing in at the at Capitol at 10 a.m. Tuesday. CBS2 and CBSN New York will have live coverage.
At 10:30 a.m., Hochul will have her first official meeting with legislative leadership as governor.
At 3 p.m., she will give a virtual address to New Yorkers.
Cuomo kept himself busy during the 11th hour after keeping a relatively low profile since announcing his resignation. He granted clemency to six people before finally handing in his resignation letter.
Cuomo will spend one last night in the coveted Governor's Mansion after his resignation becomes official. The moving trucks have already come and gone.
"I believe [Kathy Hochul] will step up to the challenge," Cuomo said in his final address as governor.
Cuomo gave his successor a quick kudos during his farewell speech. He also used the time to tout his successes over the last decade, while defending himself against sexual harassment allegations.
"The truth will come out in time," he said.
His final 48 hours in office were marked by Henri, sitting alongside state officials over the weekend, portraying a man still very much in command.
"I am governor today and I am in charge," Cuomo said Sunday.
Legislative staffers told Layton they're feeling upbeat and positive about the new leadership.
They've had time to absorb the changes and, at least on the surface, Hochul seems to have bipartisan support from lawmakers.
CBS2's Jessica Layton contributed to this report.