A hidden camera investigation has revealed a startling allegation: a nonprofit executive allegedly advising an individual without legal registration to cast a ballot in the New York City mayoral election. The recording, released Friday, centers on Pedro Rodriguez, Executive Director of La Jornada.
According to the footage, Rodriguez instructed the individual, posing as an unregistered migrant, to “vote for the guy that starts with ‘M’.” This directive points towards Zohran Mamdani, a candidate with openly progressive views currently vying for the mayoral position.
Mamdani’s platform includes controversial proposals, notably a plan to adjust property taxes based on race, specifically targeting white property owners. This radical stance has already drawn significant scrutiny during the campaign.
The investigation alleges Rodriguez was fully aware the individual was not registered to vote when offering the guidance. This action potentially violates both federal and state election laws, raising serious questions about the integrity of the electoral process.
Nonprofit organizations are legally barred from engaging in political campaigning. Regulations, previously emphasized by New York’s Attorney General, explicitly prohibit these groups from supporting or opposing candidates for public office through any means.
This prohibition extends to any form of communication – verbal, written, or digital – expressing support or opposition to a candidate or political party. The alleged actions of La Jornada appear to directly contravene these established rules.
This isn’t the first time Rodriguez and La Jornada have faced scrutiny. Last year, a direct confrontation with Rodriguez revealed allegations of providing fabricated addresses to undocumented immigrants in exchange for financial compensation.
During that encounter, Rodriguez reportedly struggled to defend his organization’s practices, resorting to accusations rather than offering clear explanations. He even claimed, when questioned about the practice of providing false addresses, that “there is no law” preventing it.
The released footage and allegations paint a troubling picture, raising concerns about potential voter fraud and the influence of politically active nonprofits. The investigation continues to fuel debate surrounding election integrity and the role of advocacy groups.
