Mets owner Steve Cohen has now stepped up his plans to open a casino near Citi Field.
Specifically, in 2021, Governor Hochul collected a total of $136,700 in donations from the Cohens, and failed to cash them in return.
Key moments: The Post reports that Hochul included a measure in the 2025 state budget to expand permits for city parks and that Cohen's proposed $8 billion casino-entertainment behemoth Metropolitan Parks It was reported that they are planning to clear a major hurdle. In Queens.
The sunlight had an effect. On Thursday, Hochul insisted she had “no intention” of using the budget process (in which she has the most influence) to push for new park rules.
Note: she didn't say that I don't Please help Cohen, just because we're not in budget negotiations.
This type of hedging is important if you want to keep the gravy train moving.
now Really With the wide-ranging corruption investigation hollowing out the Adams administration, now is not the time to be caught cursing favors to big donors.
And the now deferred favor was smellier than most favors. According to the Game Facility Location Committee, Lobbyists are banned Prohibits contacting any government entity “other than the designated contact person in an attempt to influence the award.”
But a large donation? it is legally on the board.
This is what's rotten about the whole casino race in New York City. It's designed to maximize legitimate profits as industry giants all compete for position for one of three coveted licenses. .
This kind of process is New York politics at its slimiest. Encourage bidders to compete by paying as many politicians, influence sellers, and special interests as possible, leaving the question of which plan (if any) is best for the people on the back burner. .
that I invite you That said, Hochul and all those involved in Pole should redouble their efforts to show that they will not only keep their hands clean of corrupt practices, not just when they make the news, but forever.
