New York Yankees Headed to World Series, But Mayor Eric Adams Can’t Attend Game in the Bronx
The New York Yankees are returning to the World Series for the first time since 2009, and the excitement is palpable in the city. However, Mayor Eric Adams will not be able to attend Game 1 in the Bronx, citing the city’s Conflicts of Interest Board (COIB) rules.
Conflicts of Interest Board Restrictions
Adams told THE CITY on Tuesday that he will not be able to attend the game in the Bronx, as COIB does not allow it. "I’d be surprised how stringent they are," he said. "If you wanted to sit in a box, they have the rules, they state how it’s done."
Adams did not rule out the possibility of buying a ticket, which are currently selling for over $1,200 on StubHub. However, he plans to watch the game with his 29-year-old son, Jordan Coleman, at home. "He’s a Yankees fan, I’m a Mets fan," he said.
A History of Mayors Attending Sporting Events
While Adams will not be able to attend the game, mayors throughout the city’s history have attended various events, including sports games. Under the Valuable Gift Rule, found in Chapter 68 of the New York City Charter, city employees are not permitted to accept gifts worth $50 or more from individuals or firms that do business with the city.
Adams’ Current Indictment
Adams is currently under federal indictment for, among other things, an alleged "quid pro quo" with the Turkish government, receiving gifts like flight upgrades in exchange for assistance in opening a Manhattan high-rise.
Notable Examples of Mayors Attending Events
Former Mayor Bill de Blasio, a Boston Red Sox fan, attended Game 3 of the 2015 World Series at Citi Field, purchasing his own ticket. Former Mayor Michael Bloomberg is a Yankees season ticket holder, and former Governor David Paterson got into controversy when he attended Game 1 of the 2010 World Series at Yankee Stadium alongside two aides, his son, and his son’s friend.
Conclusion
As the New York Yankees prepare to take on the Los Angeles Dodgers in the World Series, fans are eagerly anticipating the excitement to come. While Mayor Eric Adams will not be able to attend the game in the Bronx, he will be watching with his son instead. The city’s history of mayors attending sporting events is filled with examples of different approaches to navigating ethical dilemmas.
FAQs
Q: Why can’t Mayor Eric Adams attend the World Series game in the Bronx?
A: According to the Conflicts of Interest Board, city employees are not permitted to accept gifts worth $50 or more from individuals or firms that do business with the city.
Q: Can Mayor Adams buy a ticket to the game?
A: Yes, but he would need to purchase a ticket outright, as COIB does not allow him to accept the gift from a third party.
Q: What is the Valuable Gift Rule?
A: The Valuable Gift Rule is found in Chapter 68 of the New York City Charter, prohibiting city employees from accepting gifts worth $50 or more from individuals or firms that do business with the city.
