Former NYC Official Fired Over Party Admissions

Dr. Jay Varma, former senior health advisor to New York City during the COVID-19 pandemic, was fired from his position at SIGA Technologies after a hidden-camera video revealed him discussing attending sex and drug-fueled parties while publicly urging residents to practice social distancing. In the recording, Varma admitted to participating in gatherings, including a dance party with around 200 attendees, while claiming he was on MDMA. He acknowledged that his actions could have severely undermined the city's pandemic response had they been exposed at the time. Despite his admissions, Varma defended his public health policies, stating they were based on the best available science to protect New Yorkers. The incident has prompted calls from city officials for an investigation into Varma's conduct, with concerns about his breach of public trust. Varma's case parallels other high-profile breaches of pandemic rules by public officials, drawing widespread criticism.