Kathy Hochul, New York state's lieutenant governor, is receiving messages of support as she prepares to take over when Governor Andrew Cuomo steps down.

Cuomo stunned New Yorkers with his announcement on Tuesday that he planned to resign. He said his resignation would take effect in two weeks.

Hochul will become the state's 57th governor. She was born in Buffalo and served on the town of Hamburg board. She later was the Erie County clerk and served in the House of Representatives.

Cuomo's announcement that he plans to resign came exactly one week after state Attorney General Letitia James released a report that concluded the governor had sexually harassed several women.

James issued a statement saying "today closes a sad chapter for all of New York, but it's an important step towards justice." She said "Kathy Hochul will help New York enter a new day."

State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie said: "This has been a tragic chapter in our state's history. Governor Cuomo's resignation is the right decision."

Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo, an Endwell Democrat, said she believes Cuomo "did the right thing by resigning."  She said she is "looking forward to continuing to serve with Lt. Governor Kathy Hochul who will become Governor in 14 days."

In a statement, Broome County Executive Jason Garnar said he looks forward to working with Hochul. He said she "has been a friend to Broome County during her time as Lieutenant Governor."

State comptroller Thomas DiNapoli said Cuomo "has done the right thing." He said he and his office "stand ready to assist incoming Governor Hochul as we move the state forward."

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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com or (607) 772-8400 extension 233.

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