Adams Campaign Faces Controversy Over Cash Gift to Journalists

A recent report from a long-time advisor to New York Mayor Eric Adams highlights a troubling incident involving cash payments made to reporters. The advisor, Winnie Greco, has since resigned following an FBI raid related to campaign financing issues.

On Wednesday, Greco was stopped by a local news outlet during her campaign work. Earlier reports had indicated that former advisors had handed over more than $100 in cash to reporters, concealed in a potato chip bag. Greco had previously resigned as Senior Advisor and Liaison for Asian Affairs in October 2024, right after the FBI conducted searches related to campaign funding practices.

When asked by reporters about the cash gift, Greco hesitantly acknowledged the situation, saying, “I’m going to make a mistake… Sorry. It’s about culture. I don’t know. I feel very bad right now.” Her comments sparked further discussion, as many found the explanation unclear.

Greco’s lawyer, Stephen Brill, defended her actions, stating, “I admit to you that this looks strange. But we assure Winnie that he is purely innocent.” He suggested that the cash gift was simply a common gesture of friendship in Chinese culture.

Meanwhile, the FBI is investigating Greco due to alleged irregularities linked to Adams’ campaign, including accusations of illegal donations meant to disguise the true source of funds. So far, no charges have been filed against her.

Additionally, Greco has drawn scrutiny regarding her ties to China; she had previously spoken about a nonprofit aligned with Chinese interests during an event attended by Adams.

A spokesperson for Adams’ campaign expressed shock over Greco’s actions, insisting that the mayor “always demands the highest ethical and legal standards.” However, they did not provide further comments when prompted.

In a previous investigation in 2024, the Justice Department claimed that Adams had accepted improper benefits from foreign entities, although those charges were dropped by the Trump administration in February. More corruption-related allegations against Adams and his associates are expected to emerge soon.

As Adams runs for re-election as an independent against Democratic rival Zoran Mamdani and Republican candidate Curtis Swa, these allegations pose a potential threat to his campaign.