TPM:
Authorities are investigating the winning bid of a politically connected group of investors -- including a prominent rapper and a former congressman -- to transform a Queens horse track into a "racino" amid suspicions that the contract, doled out by Gov. David Paterson, was awarded improperly.
In the long-awaited deal made by the state, a consortium of companies called Aqueduct Entertainment Group will develop the 50-year-old Aqueduct Race Track in Queens into a "racino" with over 4,000 video slot machines, restaurants, a large "entertainment center," and a hotel.
On Jan. 29, Gov. David Paterson announced he and other officials had selected AEG for the project, promising "real jobs" for the region, money for the cash-strapped state, and economic development for Queens.
For the consortium of companies, the prospect of running what would be the only casino in New York City -- one with its own subway stop -- promises untold profits.
But an investigation into the deal by the state inspector general -- and possibly the U.S. Attorney -- is yet another ethics headache for Paterson. The probes could also dash hopes that the project will get off the ground anytime soon.
But an investigation into the deal by the state inspector general -- and possibly the U.S. Attorney -- is yet another ethics headache for Paterson. The probes could also dash hopes that the project will get off the ground anytime soon.
In the latest twist, the New York Post reported Tuesday that AEG investor Jay-Z, and hip-hop mogul Russell Simmons -- who was an adviser to one of the losing bidders -- were being subpoenaed to talk to the IG.After adding this to the business with his aide and the free World Series tickets, it's obvious that Paterson should resign. Dammit, why is it that New York and Illinois governors seem to believe their offices include free, publicly-financed personal ATMs and hookers? And why can't we catch Tim Pawlenty doing something similar?
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