Glenwood Management. Again at the center of an alleged corruption case is the real estate company owned by Leonard Litwin, the most prolific source of campaign money for Republicans, some Democrats and Gov. Andrew Cuomo. U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara appears primarily interested in corrupt politicians, but at some point he could turn his attention to those who enable the activities that he has zeroed in on.
New York's real estate establishment. It is important to remember that Mr. Cuomo reportedly first moved to take greater control of the Moreland Commission when it decided to probe campaign contributions by real estate interests. No business group has done more to assist Mr. Skelos; its campaign contributions to candidates in the last election were the most important factor in his ability to recapture control of the state Senate. At some point, the fallout from the Albany scandals could have an impact on the industry's clout. For example, it could lead to outlawing contributions from LLCs—the industry's favorite vehicle.
Mr. Cuomo as the real target. The U.S. attorney is reportedly investigating whether Mr. Cuomo's decision in March 2013 to abruptly shut down the Moreland Commission (so that he could get a budget passed on his terms) was in itself a criminal act. Insiders can't believe such a political decision could be illegal. But isn't Mr. Bharara following the classic prosecutorial playbook of moving up the chain?
I've asked this before, I'll ask it again:
Did Bharara picked up the investigation into Cuomo's donors that Cuomo had Larry Schwartz short-circuit by having the subpoena "pulled back"?
I have always believed that Silver and Skelos would have to be indicted first and then it would be Cuomo's turn. I still believe that. I think Cuomo obstructed justice with his meddling in the Moreland Commission's business and with Schwartz's actions to pull back the subpoenas.
ReplyDeleteI think that the Moreland panel had the goods on Silver and Skelos and that Cuomo made some type of deal.
Cuomo also has some problems with quid pro quo arrengements for film industry tax breaks. I am amazed at how blatant the communications was between Cuomo operatives and big donors from the film industry.
ReplyDelete