Carl Heastie and lobbyist face scrutiny over Brazil trip

New York State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie and longtime political ally, lobbyist Patrick Jenkins, have faced scrutiny following a multi-day birthday trip to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in September.

The trip included attending a “Boys In Brazil Party” hosted by former Dallas Cowboys player Charles Haley. Neither Heastie nor Jenkins has disclosed who financed the international travel, which watchdog groups note could potentially violate state ethics laws. New York rules generally prohibit public servants and lobbyists from accepting gifts exceeding a nominal value of $15, though exceptions exist for personal friendships if the relationship is not used as a pretext for impermissible gifts.

Reports highlight a significant correlation between Heastie’s rise to Speaker in 2015 and the growth of Jenkins’ lobbying firm. Jenkins’ firm reported earnings of approximately $238,000 in 2013, but revenue reportedly surged to $5 million in 2025. Heastie declined to comment on the trip when approached by reporters.