It has been a deep honor to serve as the 56th Governor of the State of New York. From Marriage Equality to the $15 Minimum Wage, from Paid Family Leave to the NY SAFE Act, from investing in infrastructure to fighting COVID—together we have done what no one thought could be done. We didn't get everything done that we wanted to, but I want you to know, from the bottom of my heart, that every day, I worked my hardest and gave it my all to deliver for you. Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul will become governor at midnight (August 24). She is smart and competent, and I believe she will step up to the challenge. I wish her every success. Thank you for the honor of serving you. Thank you for empowering me to fight for you. And never forget: Always stay New York tough, smart, united, disciplined and loving. It’s the essence of what makes New Yorkers so special. Excelsior.