New York Lt. Gov. Brian Benjamin (D), surrendered to Federal Authorities Tuesday morning, and faces Charges of Conspiring to commit Bribery, while serving as a State Senator from New York City's 30th District, Harlem.
Benjamin is alleged to have funneled Fraudulent Donations last year, to his Unsuccessful Campaign for New York City Comptroller.
The Arrest of Benjamin, follows an Investigation by both the FBI and the U.S. Attorney General’s Office.
They have accused Benjamil of directing State Money into the coffers of Gerald Migdol, a Private Real Estate Investor, allegedly in exchange for thousands of dollars in Illegal Campaign Contributions.
Federal Investigators, are expected to formally announce the Charges against Benjamin, on Tuesday afternoon, when he is to appear in a Manhattan Courtroom.
As recently as Thursday, Governor Kathy Hochul (D) expressed her Confidence in Benjamin’s Innocence, during a News Conference announcing the State Budget Agreement.
Benjamin had said that day, that he was Cooperating with Investigators and expected to be cleared.
Hochul’s selection of Benjamin in August, 2021, to serve as her Second-in-Command, was One of her First Major Decisions as Chief Executive.
It now is likely to Complicate Hocal's Re-Election Campaign this year. Now, its unclear whether Benjamin will remain beside Hochul on the Ticket.
UPDATE
Because the Arrest came after Petitions were turned in, Benjamin must remain on the Democratic Ballot unless he leaves the State or dies.
He is Not a Lawyer, so he may Not be nominated for a Judgeship, which is One way New York PoliticalPparties can move a Candidate aside.
Benjamin pleaded Not Guilty to all Five Count, but the Terms of his Bail forbid him from traveling to Albany.
NYC Wins When Everyone Can Vote! Michael H. Drucker
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