New York Governor’s Office Dismisses FBI Probe As ‘Charade’

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — The office of New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo is defending the administration's hiring practices amid scrutiny by the FBI.

The Albany Times-Union reports Friday that FBI investigators have questioned people who were hired to work for the governor, but who on paper were listed as working for other state agencies.

That's a move that makes the Democrat's staff and budget look smaller than they really are.

Cuomo spokesman Rich Azzopardi confirmed Friday that the administration received a subpoena months ago and has cooperated by providing documents.

Azzopardi called the investigation a "charade."

He said the practice dates back 50 years, is lawful and was used by both Republican and Democratic governors.

An FBI spokesperson declined to comment.

Cuomo is seeking re-election next year and is considered a possible presidential candidate.