How Bally’s Bronx Casino Bid Navigates Political Ties and Casino Licenses

• Developer Steve Witkoff has connections to the White House and serves as a consultant for Bally’s.
• He has suggested that Mayor Adams consider a US ambassadorship.
• Adams’ campaign chair holds a position at Bally’s.

Bally’s ambitious pursuit of a casino in the Bronx has turned its focus toward high-level political influence, aiming to secure the necessary casino licenses through strategic advocacy at influential locations like Gracie Mansion and the White House.

A figure from Mayor Eric Adams’ campaign team, in conjunction with an influential Trump Administration member, is thought to have facilitated discussions about an ambassadorship role that could diminish competition in the upcoming New York City mayoral race, primarily aimed at countering frontrunner Zohran Mamdani (D).

The Politico outlet indicates that developer Steve Witkoff is at the centre of these discussions while also being a consultant for Bally’s. The company engaged Frank Carone in 2023 through his lobbying firm, Oaktree Solutions, which assisted many firms vying for downstate casino licenses.

Bally’s has garnered some political support, as illustrated by the recent actions of the New York City Council, which initially rejected a crucial land-use application by a vote of 29-9 essential for Bally’s planned development at Ferry Point. However, this setback was countered by a veto from Adams, allowing the project to proceed.

Bally’s Bronx Casino Site: A History of Controversy

The location proposed for Bally’s casino was formerly known as Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point, a course managed by the Trump Organization. Unresolved issues concerning its past extended to 2021, when then-Mayor Bill de Blasio made attempts to dissolve the city’s agreement with the firm in response to the January 6, 2021, Capitol riots. However, the courts ultimately ruled against de Blasio in this matter.

Throughout its developments, Adams has asserted he is impartial regarding the casino license competition, with his office dismissing any alternative narratives as conspiritorial. However, some observers argue that Adams’ support of Bally’s bid, coupled with his past connections, presents a questionable public image.

Earlier reports have surfaced revealing that the White House hinted at offering Adams an exit from the competitive mayoral race, a strategy allegedly supported by financial incentives presented to various candidates, including Republican Curtis Sliwa.

The Future of Bally’s Bronx Casino

The path toward establishing Bally’s casino in the Bronx is progressively taking shape within New York City’s complex gaming landscape. Recent votes on proposals by Resorts World New York and MGM Resorts International, two leading contenders, have progressed positively in Queens and Yonkers community advisory committees.

Further developments are expected soon. On September 30, community advisory committees in the Bronx and Queens will deliberate on both the Bally’s project and the Metropolitan Park proposal, spearheaded by Steve Cohen, the owner of the New York Mets, and Hard Rock International, which is perceived as having a significant advantage in this competitive landscape.

It is feasible that both Bally’s and Metropolitan Park could receive recommendations from their respective advisory committees, since the final decision rests with the New York Gaming Facility Location Board (GFLB).

Summary: Bally’s attempt to cement a casino in the Bronx has stirred significant political intrigue due to its connections with influential figures, including Mayor Eric Adams and past Trump associates. The site’s controversial history, alongside recent financial commitments made to Trump’s organisation, casts uncertainty on Bally’s future, particularly as it faces stiff competition from other proposals. With upcoming advisory committee votes looming, the fate of Bally’s ambitions will soon be more clearly defined in New York’s evolving gaming scene.