New York Note: Client Spotlight, Federal Probe into New York AG, Hochul Defends Texas Democrats, Zak Malik Honored by City & State

August 11, 2025

Client Spotlight: Roundabout Theatre Company

Roundabout Theatre Company has launched a comprehensive renovation of the Todd Haimes Theatre. Planned enhancements include expanding accessible seating and assisted listening technology, upgrading the digital marquee system, renovating all restrooms and dressing rooms, modernizing elevators, restoring the theatre’s historic interior, and upgrading critical building systems. These improvements are part of Roundabout’s mission to enhance the theatre-going experience and ensure facilities meet modern standards. The $13.9 million project is supported by significant public funding, including $10.9 million from the City of New York through the Department of Cultural Affairs, City Council, and the Manhattan Borough President’s Office, and $3 million from the State of New York through Empire State Development, the New York State Council on the Arts, and State Senator Liz Krueger and Assemblymember Tony Simone, administered through DASNY.

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Federal Probe into NY Attorney General’s Office

Federal prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York have opened an investigation into New York Attorney General Letitia James’ office, examining whether it deprived individuals or organizations of legal rights through civil suits against former President Donald Trump, his businesses, and the National Rifle Association. James’ office won a $300 million judgment in its civil fraud case against Trump, now under appeal, and a 2024 verdict against former NRA CEO Wayne LaPierre for diverting millions from the group. In a statement, the attorney general’s office defended its litigation and warned that any “weaponization of the justice system” should concern all Americans.

Texas Democrats Rally in New York Against GOP Redistricting Plan

At a press conference in Albany, Governor Kathy Hochul welcomed more than 50 Texas House Democrats who fled their state to protest a Republican redistricting proposal that could add up to five GOP-leaning congressional seats. The lawmakers broke quorum to block the measure, which they call an attempt to “steal power,” and are meeting with Democratic governors nationwide to build a coalition against it. Hochul called the delegation “brave soldiers for our democracy” and pledged to explore mid-decade redistricting in New York if Texas proceeds with its plan. New York Democrats have introduced legislation to allow new congressional maps in 2027 if another state acts first. Texas Republicans have tied the redistricting bill to flood relief funding, a move Democrats condemned as political leverage. Governor Greg Abbott has threatened to remove absent lawmakers from office and impose $500 fines, while Attorney General Ken Paxton considers legal action.

Zak Malik Named to City & State NY’s 2025 Above & Beyond Social Services List

Zak Malik, a government relations associate at Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies in New York, has been recognized by City & State New York on its 2025 Above & Beyond Social Services list. Specializing in budget advocacy, legislative analysis, and community affairs, Malik helped secure $72.5 million in city funding for nonprofit clients in FY2026, the firm’s highest total to date. Malik works to bridge the gap between government and community organizations, driven by a commitment to equity and public service.

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