New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman is resigning at the close of business today, announcing his decision hours after the New Yorker published a story in which four women said he beat and abused them while they were in relationships.
Schneiderman issued a statement late last night saying it’s been his honor and privilege to serve as Attorney General, and that he strongly contests the allegations. But he admits he can no longer effectively lead the office.
Calls for Schneiderman’s resignation began as soon as articles by the New Yorker and the New York Times hit the internet yesterday evening.
Two of the women spoke on the record and the New Yorker said it was able to confirm a third victim’s story independently.
Schneiderman had a reputation as a defender of women’s rights and was a vocal spokesman of the “Me Too” movement. One of the women quoted in the New Yorker said that gave her the final push to speak out.
Two of the women spoke on the record with the New Yorker. Michelle Manning Barish and Tanya Selvaratnam described being choked and slapped repeatedly by Attorney General Schneiderman while they were in relationships. Both said they had to seek medical attention. They also described him drinking heavily and being out of control.
Schneiderman has denied abusing the women, issuing a statement that says he has not assaulted anyone. He says that’s a line he wouldn’t cross.