Mayor Eric Adams fosters an environment where misconduct is normalized to the point where the people under him are not afraid to resort to unethical behavior. This impacts how the mayor’s office interacts with journalists and their ability to truthfully report on the administration. 

A former top City Hall advisor and current campaign volunteer for Mayor Eric Adams, Winnie Greco, attempted to give money to a The City reporter following a campaign event in Harlem on Aug. 20. 

The reporter, Katie Honan, received a text from Greco to meet across the street from the event, during which Greco handed her an opened bag of chips with the top crumpled closed. Greco insisted Honan keep the bag of chips. 

Once Honan opened the bag, she found a red envelope stuffed with over $100 in cash. 

Knowing she could not ethically accept the money, the reporter texted Greco, “I can’t take this, when can I give it back to you?” Greco did not respond. 

This situation is a clear example of journalistic ethics. The City reporter stayed true to the journalist’s code of ethics, which all journalism organizations and individual journalists should strictly follow.  

A code of ethics in journalism is crucial because it maintains the integrity of a news organization and the credibility of the news that is published. 

Journalists are not allowed to accept expensive gifts or bribes in exchange for media coverage. 

It is essential that journalists remain in pursuit of the truth, not potato chip bribes. Greco’s actions call into question the integrity of the Adams administration. When interviewed by The City about her intentions in handing the money to the reporter, Greco responded, “I make a mistake. I’m so sorry. It’s a culture thing. I don’t know. I don’t understand. I’m so sorry. I feel so bad right now. I’m so sorry, honey.”

Adams’ campaign spokesman, Todd Shapiro, said Greco has been suspended from the campaign. The Adams administration is no stranger to controversy; along with himself, Adams’ administration members have been indicted and faced with multiple federal charges.

There is too much misconduct within the Adams administration, for which Adams is partly to blame.