Ethics Group Chides King For Boxing Match

Is Rep. Peter King’s exhibition boxing match at Mulcahy’s Pub in Wantagh this Saturday an ethics violation?

Officials with the Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington say yes.

Melanie Sloan, the organization’s executive director, told Newsday that King may have overlooked a House of Representative’s Code of Ethics requirement that says members of congress need to avoid appearing to favor one business.

“Is it the most serious ethics violation in the world? No,” Sloan said. “But you’re not allowed to do that.”

Not surprisingly, King disagreed, saying he believes it’s appropriate to assist local businesses in his community.

"Lending my time to a local gym and pub in the community in which I have absolutely no financial interest is part of my job as a congressman," the Seaford Republican said.