Mamdani-backed Queens pol opposed casino project near Citi Field while taking tribal gaming cash
A New York assemblymember, backed by Zohran Mamdani, opposed a Queens casino while receiving funds from a Texas-based tribal casino.Summary
Assemblymember Claire Valdez, supported by Zohran Mamdani, receives between $5,000 and $20,000 annually as a member of the Ysleta Del Sur Pueblo tribe, which operates the Speaking Rock Entertainment Center casino. Despite this income, Valdez voted against the Metropolitan Park casino project near Citi Field, which was projected to create 23,000 union jobs and generate over $1 billion in community benefits. She justified her vote by stating she sided with constituents who opposed the project. However, Valdez supported a similar bill for a Bally’s casino in The Bronx, which would benefit the Trump Organization with a $115 million payout. She explained her differing stances by highlighting local opposition to the Queens project, but did not fully address the discrepancy. Her congressional run is endorsed by Mamdani, causing friction with retiring Rep. Nydia Velazquez.
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