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A Lawmaker Blasted a Hospital’s Super Bowl Ad. Then He Changed His Tune.

The New York Times's profile
The New York Times
5h ago

Representative Greg Murphy of North Carolina criticized NYU Langone Health for spending an estimated $8 million on a Super Bowl advertisement, questioning the hospital's use of federal funds. His initial letter to the hospital's CEO, Dr. Robert Grossman, included inquiries about the hospital's finances and potential exploitation of legal loopholes. However, in a sudden reversal, Murphy wrote a second letter expressing admiration for the hospital's patient outcomes and metrics after a private conversation with Dr. Grossman. This change in stance coincided with a visit from a private jet registered to a company associated with NYU Langone's benefactor, Kenneth Langone, though details of the visit remain unclear. Despite the dramatic shift, Murphy's office has not disclosed the information provided by NYU Langone that led to his change of heart.

A Lawmaker Blasted a Hospital’s Super Bowl Ad. Then He Changed His Tune.

Representative Greg Murphy criticized NYU Langone Health for its Super Bowl ad, questioning the hospital's financial decisions given its receipt of federal funds.

Murphy's letter to NYU Langone's CEO, Dr. Robert Grossman, included pointed questions about the hospital's financial practices, including overseas investments and a 'rural' designation for subsidies.

Eight days after his critical letter, Murphy expressed admiration for the hospital's metrics and patient outcomes in a follow-up letter, praising the institution.

The change in Murphy's position followed a private conversation with Dr. Grossman, although it is unclear if it occurred in person or over the phone.

A private jet registered to Kenneth Langone's company, a major donor to NYU Langone, landed in Murphy's hometown shortly before his second letter, raising questions about potential influence.

Murphy's office has not provided the public with the details of the information received from NYU Langone that satisfied his initial concerns.

The incident highlights the complexities and potential conflicts of interest in the relationship between political figures and influential donors.

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