Ex–Hochul Aide Got ‘Salted Ducks’ for Favors to Chinese

Andrew Cuomo’s top aide Larry Schwartz received ‘salted ducks’ from two Chinese businessmen after helping their Queens development project win tax breaks.

The gifts were part of a years-long pattern of Schwartz using his position in the governor’s office to steer state contracts and business to his friends and associates.

The New York Times reported that Schwartz, who served as Cuomo’s secretary and top aide from 2011 to 2021, played a key role in helping two Chinese businessmen, Simon and Ping Lin, win tax breaks for their $2.5 billion Queens development project.

According to the Times, the Lins gave Schwartz a variety of gifts, including “salted ducks,” a Chinese delicacy, and expensive meals.

The Times also reported that Schwartz helped the Lins secure a $100 million state loan for their project and pushed for the state to approve a new ferry route that would benefit the development.

Schwartz’s actions have raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest and whether he used his position in the governor’s office to benefit his friends and associates.

Schwartz, through his lawyer, has denied any wrongdoing and said that he did not receive any gifts from the Lins.

The allegations against Schwartz are part of a broader pattern of Cuomo using his office to benefit his friends and associates. In August, the Times reported that Cuomo had used state resources to help his brother, Chris Cuomo, cover up a sexual harassment scandal.

The allegations against Cuomo and Schwartz have led to calls for their resignations. In August, the New York State Assembly impeached Cuomo on charges of sexual harassment and misconduct.

Cuomo has denied the allegations and has said that he will not resign.