City Council members raised doubts about Randy Mastro’s past as a federal prosecutor and aide to Mayor Rudy Giuliani.
The New York City Council and Mayor Eric Adams have been at odds over the appointment of Randy Mastro as the city’s top lawyer. Mastro, a controversial figure known for his aggressive legal tactics, faced a contentious nomination hearing before the Council. The Council members, particularly the Democrats, expressed concerns over Mastro’s selection and questioned the mayor’s decision to appoint him.
Mastro’s role as corporation counsel involves providing legal representation to the city and its agencies, as well as representing the mayor in civil litigation. The timing of Mastro’s appointment raised eyebrows, as Mayor Adams himself was facing a lawsuit alleging sexual assault. Council Speaker Adrienne Adams emphasized the importance of the corporation counsel representing the interests of the public and upholding principles of justice and equity, rather than prioritizing the mayor or any individual official.
The nomination hearing highlighted the tension between the Council and the mayor, with Mastro’s controversial past and the circumstances of his appointment coming under scrutiny. The outcome of the hearing remains uncertain, as the Council weighs the implications of confirming Mastro as corporation counsel.
Source: The NY Times
