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Compiled by Eric Holmberg

Saturday, February 15, 2025

About an inch of snow expected in New York City, 1 to 2 inches of snow expected in Albany and 1 to 3 inches of snow expected in Buffalo. New York City, high 36; Albany, high 27; Buffalo, high 35.

Editor’s note: Due to the Presidents Day holiday, there will be no newsletters on Monday. We’ll be back in your inboxes on Tuesday!

This week's magazine

Special Report: Casinos

* For the past two years, real estate developers and gambling executives have been salivating at the possibility of opening a new casino in New York City. Here’s a closer look at each casino proposal.

Key Interviews

* Read what state Sen. Joseph Addabbo Jr. and Assembly Member Carrie Woerner – the two legislative chairs that oversee gambling issues – have to say about the downstate licensing process and check out the full special report here.

 ▶ Read This Week's Issue

From City & State

* The Rev. Al Sharpton and Reps. Hakeem Jeffries and Greg Meeks have all expressed more explicit concerns about Mayor Eric Adams in the past few days, though none of the prominent Black leaders have called for Gov. Kathy Hochul to remove him from office.

* Hochul and Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado have taken different positions on whether Adams must leave office – and it’s just the latest public split between the governor and her independent-minded deputy.

* Adams’ coziness with President Donald Trump won’t endear him to Democratic voters in New York City, and our polling shows that his political future is irreversibly damaged and he cannot win reelection, write consultants Bradley Honan and Elisabeth Zeche. 

As a leader in groundbreaking initiatives like the Empire AI Consortium and home to the AI Innovation Institute, along with top-ranked programs spanning multiple disciplines, Stony Brook University is shaping a brighter future for New York. Explore how Stony Brook’s growing AI ecosystem is transforming possibilities into real progress—from smart electric grids to personalized medicine: Read more!

New this morning

* It could be a make-or-break weekend for New York City Mayor Eric Adams as calls mount for him to resign and Gov. Kathy Hochul faces pressure to oust him for being beholden to President Donald Trump after the U.S. Department of Justice quashed his criminal case, the New York Post reports.

* Federal judges have almost no ability under the law to refuse a government request to drop criminal charges, but the corruption case against Adams may be the exception, The New York Times reports.

* Adams plans to take the Trump administration to court over its clawback of $80 million in Federal Emergency Management Agency funds intended to help New York City provide shelter and services to migrants, Politico New York reports.

* Former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo is preparing to launch a widely anticipated campaign for New York City mayor by early March, according to two people familiar with his plans, Jewish Insider reports.

* The reaction to the mayor’s deal with the Trump administration to reopen ICE immigration operations on Rikers Island has sparked sharp divisions, with angry opposition among advocates and support in law enforcement circles, the Daily News reports.

* More news below …

Fraud and bogus lawsuits brought by greedy special interests in Albany are making the cost of everything in New York more expensive. Join Citizens for Affordable Rates to lower costs and put New York families first.

Click here to watch video.

* Border czar Tom Homan suggested that Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez may be “impeding” federal immigration authorities from arresting and deporting criminal illegal immigrants by holding a webinar in an apparent effort to help migrants avoid deportation, the Post reports.

* U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin described in a new interview how he’ll fulfill the regulatory agency’s self-described mission of protecting human health and the environment, NY1 reports.

* Some members of the WhatsApp group Columbia Alumni for Israel have focused their energy on using Trump’s draconian immigration policies to deal with Israel’s critics, including efforts to paint international student protesters as terrorists to have their visas revoked, The Intercept reports.

* A panel of Democrats at Caucus Weekend said the party must change its strategy to reengage Black, Asian and Hispanic voters amid a rise in conservatism in minority groups, which helped propel President Donald Trump to victory in November, State of Politics reports.

* Democrats in the 21st Congressional District face an unusual dilemma ahead of their upcoming special election: campaigning for presumptive nominee Blake Gendebien with no Republican opponent or election date in sight, the Times Union reports.

Uber is lying to you — drivers do not earn more than EMTs and other city workers. A new city audit of rideshare driver pay found that New York’s rideshare drivers make less than minimum wage. Meanwhile, Uber tripled the amount it takes from each fare.

Uber’s greed is hurting thousands of New Yorkers. Now is the time for the city to act. Raise minimum driver pay rates. Learn more!

Editorial pages

* These recent revelations that New York City Mayor Eric Adams is willing to sacrifice our immigrant communities as part of his quid pro quo is shocking, and he must be removed from office, former New York Immigration Coalition Executive Director Steven Choi writes for the Daily News.

* For children, for families and for all New Yorkers across the state, the governor should listen to her advisory council and push for a statewide housing voucher program this session, Win President and CEO Christine Quinn writes for the Times Union.

Out here, we put the city in authenticity. When Brooklyn builds, we put down roots. Now’s your chance to get in on the ground floor as we build The Brooklyn Way. Lock in your 2025-26 Season Ticket Membership and unlock access to exclusive benefits, rewards, and perks that make every moment mean more. Let’s build the Brooklyn way!

Place Your Bets, New York

Episode 5: Sports Betting in New York

Co-hosts Tom Allon and Senator Joseph Addabbo chat with Chairman Brian O’Dwyer of the New York State Gaming Commission and Jeremy Kudon, Chair of Public Policy at Orrick & President of the Sports Betting Alliance, about the history of sports betting in NY, the role of the Gaming Commission, and the tax revenue implications of legalization. Tune in to hear the discussion!

Sponsored by: Empire City Casino, New York Racing Association, Sports Betting Alliance, Jake's 58 Casino Hotel, Light & Wonder, Bet Rivers, Saratoga Casino Hotel and Tioga Downs Casino Resort

National politics

* Workers across the country responded with anger and confusion as they grappled with the Trump administration’s aggressive effort to shrink the size of the federal workforce by ordering agencies to lay off probationary employees, The Associated Press reports.

* Trump administration officials fired more than 300 staffers Thursday night at the National Nuclear Security Administration – the agency tasked with managing the nation’s nuclear stockpile – but the officials did not seem to know this agency oversees America’s nuclear weapons, CNN reports.

* The U.S. Army will no longer allow transgender people to enlist, and will stop providing gender-affirming care for service members, which followed an executive order by President Donald Trump on Jan. 27 that directed the Pentagon to determine a policy for transgender service members within 30 days, CBS News reports.

LIMITED TICKETS AVAILABLE: Celebrate the Power-Players of the Highly-Anticipated New York City Power 100  List on 2/19!

City & State's annual list of the New York City Power 100 is one of the most anticipated rankings of the year.This special edition of the magazine publishes on February 18th and will unveil our exclusive ranking of top leaders across government, advocacy, academia, media, business, and more. We will celebrate these influential leaders at an exclusive evening reception on February 19th featuring keynote remarks from FDNY Commissioner, Robert S. Tucker and Dan Garodnick, Director of the NYC Department of City Planning and Chair of the City Planning Commission. LEARN MORE!

Sponsored by: CMW Strategies; Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce and MirRam Group

Announcements

HAPPY BIRTHDAY: To Assembly Member Catalina Cruz … to John Ciampoli, of counsel, Perillo Hill LLP … to Annaliese Griffin, newsletter editor, The Marshall Project … to Joshua Knoller, vice president at Nicholas & Lence Communications … to Nick E. Smith, executive director of Communities Resist … to Don Levy, director of the Siena College Research Institute … to Grace Bonilla, president and CEO of United Way of New York City … to Meghan Mangini, associate for the corporate and legislation team, Kasirer … to Lisa M. Marrello, partner, Park Strategies … to Danny Pearlstein, policy and communications director at Riders Alliance … and to Ken Schoetz, president and CEO of the Healthcare Association of Western and Central New York.

ON SUNDAY: To former New York City Council Member Inez Barron … to Allen Roskoff, president of the Jim Owles Liberal Democratic Club … to former state Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos … to Steve Ramos, deputy director, division of prevention, state Office of Addiction Services and Supports … to Tony Utano, former president of Transport Workers Union Local 100 … to Pablo Zevallos, staff attorney at The Legal Aid Society … to Anderson Robinson, second vice president, Stonewall Rebellion Veterans’ Association … and to Gary Jenkins, chief administrative officer, Urban Pathways.

ON MONDAY: To Larry Schimmel, general counsel to state Attorney General Letitia James … to David Van Zandt, former president of The New School … to former Albany County Legislator Peter Crouse … to Carol Conslato, director of Queens public affairs for Con Edison … to Melissa Cebollero, associate vice president, community affairs, Montefiore Health System … to Gregory Davidzon, president and CEO of Davidzon Radio and Russian Television Network of America … to María Navarro Gallegos, senior media strategist at Stu Loeser & Co. Strategy … to Evelin Collado, Manhattan borough director in the Office of New York City Comptroller Brad Lander … and to Yen Chou, director of community affairs for Assembly Member David Weprin.

Have a birthday, career change, birth, death or life event to announce? Email us: editor@cityandstateny.com.

Join us on 2/27 for Google Public Sector, Gen AI Live & Labs: New York City to explore how state and local governments and higher education institutions are working to implement forward-thinking programs that empower the next generation of leaders. Learn from industry leaders who are driving change across state, local, and education sectors, gaining insights into successful strategies and actionable steps for multi-faceted AI implementation at your organization. REGISTER TODAY!

Registration is complimentary for public sector and higher education attendees who attend this in-person event.

City & State NY Jobs

To advertise your 2025 employment opportunities here with City & State, email jobs@cityandstateny.com or call (212) 894-5417 ext. 520. To view more jobs, please visit jobs.cityandstateny.com.

Political Director - Long Island Federation of Labor - The Political Director works closely with the affiliated local unions and Executive Director to develop and execute the Federation’s political and legislative agenda. They will develop strategies to advance the interests of union members and working families on Long Island. This individual will coordinate political campaigns, engage with elected officials, oversee grassroots mobilization efforts, and collaborate with local, state, and national labor organizations. Learn more here!

Senior Advocacy & Campaigns Strategist - FFJC - New York, New York -The Fines & Fees Justice Center (FFJC) is seeking a Senior Advocacy & Campaigns Strategist to lead impactful fines and fees reform efforts in New York State. As part of FFJC’s advocacy team, this position focuses on building coalitions, advancing legislative campaigns, and fostering key relationships with stakeholders, communities, and policymakers. The ideal candidate will drive sustainable fines and fees reforms while providing strategic and technical support to partners across the state. Learn more here!

Today's sked

Gov. Kathy Hochul is in Albany with no public schedule.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams is in New York City with no public schedule.

8 a.m. – The New York State Association of Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic & Asian Legislators Inc. hosts its 54th Annual Legislative Conference in Albany. For the full schedule of the day’s events, click here.

9 a.m. – New York City Comptroller Brad Lander participates in state Sen. James Sanders Jr.’s 2024 MWBE Disparity Study Panel, Hearing Room C, Legislative Office Building, Albany.

10:30 a.m. – New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams speaks at the Reimagining Policing Workshop, 40 Lodge St., Albany.

12 p.m. – New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams delivers remarks and receives an award at Women’s Empowerment Luncheon, Assembly Chamber, state Capitol, Albany.

12 p.m. – Williams gives remarks at the CUNY Labor Luncheon, 279 Madison Ave., Albany.

1 p.m. – Adams delivers remarks at the New York State Association of Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic & Asian Legislators Inc.’s Labor Luncheon, Empire State Plaza Convention Center, Albany.

2 p.m. – Adams delivers remarks at Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.’s Day at the Capitol Reception, Albany Capital Center, 55 Eagle St., Albany.

3:45 p.m. – Williams speaks at the State of Gun Violence Prevention, Intervention, Restoration and Legislation in 2025 Workshop, 100 South Mall Arterial, Albany.

5 p.m. – Williams receives the Community Justice Advocate Award from the Center for Justice Innovation, 40 Lodge St., Albany.

SUNDAY’S SKED:

7 a.m. – New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams delivers the keynote address at Westchester Black Women’s Political Caucus Breakfast, Hilton Albany Ballroom, 40 Lodge St., Albany.

10 a.m. – The New York State Association of Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic & Asian Legislators Inc. hosts its 54th Annual Legislative Conference in Albany. For the full schedule of the day’s events, click here.

7 p.m. – Adams delivers remarks and receives an award at the New York State Association of Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic & Asian Legislators Inc.’s Annual Scholarship Gala, Empire State Plaza Convention Center, Albany.

MONDAY’S SKED:

7:30 a.m. – State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli speaks at the Association of Towns of the State of New York’s annual meeting, no location provided.

10:40 a.m. – Former Assembly Member Michael Blake appears on “The Brian Lehrer Show,” WNYC.

TUESDAY’S SKED:

9:30 a.m. – Win President and CEO Christine Quinn, VOCAL-NY, Citizens’ Committee for Children of New York and other groups call on the state Legislature to pass the Housing Access Voucher Program, 250 Broadway, Manhattan.

10 a.m. – The state Senate Committees on Social Services, Aging as well as Housing, Construction and Community Development hold a public hearing to assess rental assistance programs and examine the need for expanded residential rental assistance, Senate Hearing Room, 250 Broadway, Manhattan.

10 a.m. – The New York City Campaign Finance Board holds a public meeting. Watch here.

2 p.m. – Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins gives his weekly update, Michaelian Office Building, Press Room, ninth floor, 148 Martine Ave., White Plains.

5:15 p.m. – State Sen. Jeremy Cooney hosts an urgent policy briefing on women’s health. Register here.

Kicker

“I expect you will eventually find someone who is enough of a fool, or enough of a coward, to file your motion. But it was never going to be me.” – former Assistant U.S. Attorney Hagan Scotten, in a resignation letter declining to file a motion to dismiss the charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams, via the Daily News

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