An Open Letter to Former Comptroller Scott Stringer…
Dear Scott:
Earlier this year, you filed papers with the New York City Campaign Finance Board to form an exploratory committee as you consider another mayoral run (I received an email from “Team Stringer” asking for a donation).
It also stated that “Scott Stringer has spent his entire career standing up to special interests and looking out for New York’s most vulnerable.”
As a retiree from City service, I feel that you must take an unequivocal and unambiguous position on the most vulnerable (elderly and disabled retired City workers) being forced into a flawed Medicare Advantage plan.
We include many 9/11 responders dealing with deteriorating health. The majority of us have pensions under $35,000 a year.
When you wore either the Comptroller or Candidate hat, the silence was deafening.
An exception: On May 5, 2021 you were interviewed on the Brian Lehrer Show. Asked about your stance, the reply was: “…I have great questions about it…I'll be able to say something more soon…”
Alas, you then went dark and remained quiet. Despite the hearings, demonstrations and public debate.
In stark contrast, Brad Lander, your successor, had the courage and insight to express reservations about Medicare Advantage, including “allegations of fraud, abuse, overbilling, and denials of medically necessary care.”
The central questions are — if elected Mayor — would you discontinue active litigation brought against retirees? Would you endorse a City Council bill that would preserve and enshrine promised health benefits?
The Stringer NYC website states: “As he explores a campaign for Mayor in 2025, Scott will be meeting with New Yorkers from every section of our City, and he invites you to join that conversation.”
Please meet with Marianne Pizzitola, President of the New York City Organization of Public Service Retirees and other stakeholders, and not be misled by Municipal Labor Committee misinformation, or the clarion call of heath care industry lobbyists.
We need to know which side you are on.
To quote Bob Dylan, you can’t “just sit here and watch the river flow.”
Best,
Harry Weiner