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Online groups form in support of embattled Gov. Andrew Cuomo

Sandy Behan.
Provided
Sandy Behan.

An interview with Sandy Behan, moderator of online groups in support of Gov. Andrew Cuomo.

Sandy Behan.
Credit Provided
Sandy Behan.

Many people from across the political spectrum have called for Gov. Andrew Cuomo's resignation in light of a series of scandals, including numerous allegations of sexual harassment.

But various groups of Cuomo supporters are organizing and getting more vocal on social media. An East Rochester woman moderates two online groups supporting the embattled governor.

Sandy Behan's Facebook group "Women for Governor Cuomo"has about 1,200 members.

They're calling on those who have asked the governor to resign in light of sexual harassment allegations to step back and let investigators do their job.

"We're not condemning the victims," Behan said. "We're not in any way saying it didn't happen. We're just saying, let the process play out."

According to Behan, some members have been removed from the group for launching a Twitter attack against Lindsey Boylan, the first woman who accused Cuomo of sexual misconduct.

One tweet accused Boylan of dressing in a certain way to attract the attention of the governor.

"We want no bashing of the accusers," Behan said. "We don't want them harassed in any way. We do not feel it's right, and we will not tolerate it."

Behan, who is 68, said she experienced workplace sexual harassment early in her career.

She said she supports the #MeToo movement and believes women who are the victims of sexual misconduct have the right to be heard.

Behan also recently formed the group "We Decide New York," which she describes as a "collaborative group of like-minded individuals supporting candidates and causes which highlight the will of the people."

She said the group is not a fan club, but members support Cuomo for his leadership throughout the coronavirus pandemic.

Behan said she identifies as a Democrat but has no affiliation with Cuomo, his office, or his family. 

Copyright 2021 WXXI News

Beth Adams joined WXXI as host of Morning Edition in 2012 after a more than two decade radio career. She was the longtime host of the WHAM Morning News in Rochester, where she was recognized for her work by the New York State Associated Press Broadcasters Association and the New York State Humane Society. Her career also took her from radio stations in Elmira, New York to Miami, Florida.