#Andrew Cuomo skipping Biden inauguration over capitol threats

Gov. Andrew Cuomo said Monday he had canceled his plans to attend President-elect Joe Biden’s inauguration this week and will instead stay in Albany due to security concerns at state capitols around the country.

“The inauguration is Wednesday. I was planning to go — I’m not going to,” Cuomo said during a virtual press briefing, adding, “I think my place is to stay in New York state given this possible circumstance.”

There have been reports that armed protests are expected at all 50 state capitols, plus near the US Capitol, ahead of Inauguration Day.

“We have made preparations here,” Cuomo said. “We have the State Police who have been making preparations. We have police officers on standby.”

Cuomo continued, “If there’s a possible situation here at the capitol, I’m going to be at the capitol.”

“The people of the state of New York elected me governor and I think the governor should be here on this day,” Cuomo said, while noting that he has sent his “best wishes” to Biden.

“He’s a good friend and it’s gonna be a great day,” Cuomo said of Inauguration Day.