A recent controversy has emerged in the race for New York City Council District 30 as one candidate is facing criticism for using taxpayer-funded campaign dollars to cover the costs of a personal trip.
The spending, which was revealed through filings with the New York City Campaign Finance Board, has raised concerns over the transparency and appropriateness of using public funds for personal travel, prompting strong reactions from political opponents.
Phil Wong, a Democratic candidate for District 30, has sharply criticized his opponent, Dermot Smyth, for using campaign funds to finance a trip to Puerto Rico.
According to filings with the New York City Campaign Finance Board, Smyth spent nearly $2,200 in taxpayer-funded campaign dollars on travel expenses to attend SOMOS, a conference hosted by a nonprofit organization that unites the Latino community, raises awareness, advocates, and elevates social consciousness on public policy.
The filing showed that Smyth used public campaign funds to cover the costs of flights and accommodations for the event, which took place in Puerto Rico. SOMOS, an annual gathering of New York’s political elite and lobbyists, is often criticized for providing a platform for politicians to connect with lobbyists and special interest groups, raising concerns about the transparency of such events.
The 2024 SOMOS Conference, which took place from Nov. 6 to 10, was themed “Navigating Change Together: Fostering Collaboration for a Sustainable Future.”
Smyth is part of the matching funds program for campaign financing. It gives candidates a strong incentive to finance their campaigns by engaging with average New Yorkers instead of seeking large contributions from special interests. However, this means that taxpayers essentially funded Smyth’s trip to Puerto Rico.
The voluntary public financing program matches small-dollar contributions from individuals who reside in New York City, helping amplify New Yorkers’ voices in city elections. After the election, candidates who have received public funding must return any remaining funds to the city.
Wong, who currently serves as the Budget Director for outgoing Council Member Robert Holden, wasted no time calling out Smyth for what he describes as the misuse of public funds for personal gain.
“Instead of focusing on the district, my opponent used Campaign Finance funds to fly to Puerto Rico, where deals are made behind the backs of constituents, and people get to lay in the sun and have a good time—all while New Yorkers struggle to afford basic necessities and can’t even dream of vacations,” Wong stated.
“We don’t need a lobbyist politician who doesn’t understand the district’s issues and is only looking to do the bidding of special interests. Lobbyists get paid enough—let them fund their own trips.”
Wong’s comments echo broader concerns about a growing disconnect between politicians and the everyday struggles of constituents. He has made it clear that, if elected, he would prioritize transparency and fiscal responsibility.
“The residents of District 30 deserve a leader who puts their needs first, not someone who abuses taxpayer dollars for personal gain,” Wong added.
“We don’t need someone who is supported by Manhattan politicians who passed bail reform, Raise the Age, Congestion Pricing, and more. I am committed to transparency and fiscal responsibility, and I will always prioritize the hard-working residents of our community. My only special interest is the residents of these communities.”
Wong has a longstanding advocacy and public service history. He previously served as President of the Community Education Council (CEC) School District 24. During his time on the CEC, Wong fought for better schools, protected the specialized high school exam (SHSAT), advocated for more gifted and talented programs, and pushed for expanded services for local families.
Wong and Smyth are both looking to replace Robert Holden in representing the District 30 neighborhoods of Ridgewood, Maspeth, Middle Village, Glendale, Elmhurst, and Rego Park, with the General Election on Nov. 4, 2025. Other candidates for this District include Alicia Vaichunas, Paul Pogozelski, and Jonathan Rinaldi.
Dermot Smyth was contacted and given the opportunity to provide a statement on this story, but QNS did not receive a response.
