Reynoso Rejects Gifts from Turkish Officials

Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso disclosed that he rejected offers of lavish gifts and a trip to Turkey from Turkish officials shortly after taking office in 2022. This revelation comes amid the federal indictment of his predecessor, Mayor Eric Adams, who faces charges relating to accepting over $100,000 in gifts and bribes from Turkish nationals. Reynoso, acknowledging the ethical implications of such gifts, returned eight gold-plated porcelain tea sets and declined an airplane ticket to Istanbul, citing legal concerns about accepting foreign gifts. He stated that he reported these interactions to the FBI, reflecting on the situation as an attempt by the Turkish government to build a relationship through gifts. His comments indicate a shift in perspective regarding the Turkish officials' intentions, particularly in light of the ongoing investigation into Adams. Reynoso has called for Adams to resign but has no intentions of running for mayor himself.