Cuomo names staffer as new top aide

In this file photo, New York State Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo and New York State Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos speak to the media. Gov. Andrew Cuomo has vetoed a bill that would have let school districts issue bonds for pensions. (June 30, 2011) Credit: Charles Eckert
Gov. Andrew Cuomo has named a replacement for longtime top aide Steven Cohen, who is returning to private law practice.
Cohen will be replaced as secretary to the governor by Larry Schwartz, who has been a senior adviser to Cuomo. Schwartz had also served as secretary for former Gov. David Paterson. Schwartz also served as Westchester County's deputy executive.
Cohen has worked for Cuomo since he became attorney general in 2007, serving as counselor and chief of staff for that office.
Cohen was paid $166,074 a year as secretary. Schwartz's new salary wasn't included in Friday's statement announcing the changes.
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