Rep. Anthony D’Esposito is responding to a
New York Times report that says he may have broken House ethics rules.
The report says the first-term Republican gave taxpayer-funded jobs to his alleged mistress and his fiancée’s daughter. Both allegedly worked in his district office.
In a statement to News 12, D’Esposito called the article a ‘partisan hit piece’ saying his personal life has never interfered with his ability to deliver results to his constituents.
Political strategist Mike Dawidziak says he doesn’t see this report having much of an impact on voters.
"I don't find a problem with it, he's been good for the district, he's been good for the town, he's been a good congressman, he has my support," said Charlie Hohmann, of Island Park.
The report comes just six weeks before Election Day as the congressman is in a tight race for reelection fighting to keep his seat against Democrat Lauren Gillen.
News 12 reached out to the House Ethics Committee to see if they intend to investigate the accusations against Rep. D’Esposito, to which they replied “no comment.”
Dan Feldman, professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, believes this could lead to Congress issuing a formal disapproval of his actions in the form of a reprimand or censure.