From NYC Public Safety Chair to Political Outcast: Kamillah Hanks' Demotion
From NYC Public Safety Chair to Political Outcast: Kamillah Hanks' Demotion
Read Luthmann's Latest on Newsbreak
By Richard Luthmann
Read Investigative Reporter Richard Luthmann’s latest on Newsbreak:
From NYC Public Safety Chair to Political Outcast: Kamillah Hanks' Demotion
Summary:
In a stunning political shift, New York City Council Member Kamillah Hanks faces a demotion from her role as chair of the Committee on Public Safety. This move, orchestrated by NYC Mayor Eric Adams and Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, highlights a significant realignment in the city's political landscape.
Hanks, a Democratic representative from Staten Island, has been a rising figure in the party. However, her political trajectory took a turn following her support for the "How Many Stops Acts" bill, which sought to increase oversight on police street stops. This stance directly opposed Mayor Adams, a former police captain, who strongly opposed the bill. Hanks' decision to vote for the bill on the NYC Council floor was perceived as a challenge to the Mayor's authority and a significant factor in her subsequent demotion.
Further complicating Hanks' position were allegations involving questionable cultural affairs grants. Reports indicated that NYC Council funds were directed to a non-profit run by Henry "Bobby Digi" Olisa, a figure with past connections to felons and organized crime. This became particularly contentious due to Olisa's romantic involvement with NYC Cultural Affairs Commissioner Laurie Cumbo.
A well-known Manhattan Democratic Political Consultant, speaking anonymously, criticized the explanation of Hanks' demotion as a mere “reshuffle.”
"Both Adamses have previously distanced themselves from popular politicians for much less. Diana Reyna comes to mind. The claim that this is a 'reshuffle' is unadulterated bullshit. This is both punishment and practicality. Hanks isn't very popular. They both look at her, and all they see are headaches."
Additionally, Hanks' standing within her district in Staten Island has been deteriorating. The Staten Island Democratic Party Chair, Laura Sword, is reportedly not on speaking terms with Hanks. A 2025 primary challenge is expected, and the county organization might not support her. Her stance on police matters is particularly problematic in Staten Island, which is known for its law enforcement support.
A member of the Staten Island Democratic County Committee highlighted Hanks' history of alienating colleagues, referring to her past conflicts and a perceived lack of loyalty.
Amidst these political shifts, Councilmember Yusef Salaam, known for being one of the exonerated Central Park Five, is expected to replace Hanks as chair of the Public Safety Committee. This change signifies a reward for loyalty and a shift in council dynamics.
Hanks, however, downplayed the significance of her demotion, framing it as a divergence in vision with party leadership. She remains committed to representing her constituents.
Attention has also turned to Digi-Olisa's financial dealings, including his involvement with the Canvas Institute for Arts and Culture, which received significant funding from the NYC Council, allocated by Hanks. This and his relationship with Cumbo have raised calls for financial audits and scrutiny of their interconnected public roles.
In the interests of full disclosure, this reporter is engaged in a lawsuit against Council Member Hanks, captioned Luthmann v. Hanks et al., Ind. No. 100012/2024 (New York County Supreme Court, New York State). Hanks has a pattern of failing to pay valid bills, failing to make required campaign disclosures, and a history of tortious interference with the practice of journalism, the complaint alleges.
https://www.silive.com/crime-safety/2021/08/trial-by-combat-lawyer-richard-luthmann-released-from-federal-custody.html