Exclusive | NYC politician funneled thousands of taxpayer dollars to her hubby’s organizations

A Controversy Surrounding Taxpayer Funds and Conflict of Interest

A recent investigation has revealed that Brooklyn Councilwoman Shahana Hanif, a Democrat representing the 39th district, has been at the center of a financial controversy involving taxpayer money and organizations linked to her husband. Known for her outspoken anti-Israel stance, Hanif has reportedly funneled over $149,000 of public funds to various Arab immigrant groups, many of which have ties to her spouse, Abdullah Younus. This revelation has raised eyebrows, with critics questioning whether these financial allocations were driven by personal connections rather than the public good.

The councilwoman’s discretionary funding was directed toward nonprofits such as the Arab American Association of New York, the Arab American Family Support Center, and the New York Immigration Coalition. Public records indicate that the amounts allocated to these organizations appear to have increased or decreased in correlation with her husband’s involvement. For instance, in 2024, after Younus joined the board of the Arab American Family Support Center, Hanif donated $35,000 to the group—$15,000 more than in previous years. By the 2025 fiscal year, this amount rose to $50,000. Similarly, in 2022, while Younus was serving on the board of the Arab American Association, Hanif contributed funds to the organization, but sheceased her support after he transitioned to the Family Support Center.

Funding Patterns and Lack of Disclosure

The funding patterns have sparked concerns about potential conflicts of interest. Neither Hanif nor the organizations involved disclosed any such conflicts to the New York City Council, according to documents reviewed by investigators. Ethical guidelines typically require public officials to disclose relationships that could influence their decision-making, particularly when public funds are involved. The lack of transparency in this case has led to accusations of impropriety, with critics arguing that the allocations may have been influenced by personal relationships rather than the merits of the organizations.

One constituent, Christine Doyle, a retired attorney living in Hanif’s district, uncovered the suspicious spending patterns. Doyle became aware of the issue after growing frustrated with Hanif’s accessibility and responsiveness to her constituents. She expressed disappointment not only with the financial decisions but also with Hanif’s overall conduct as a representative. Doyle emphasized that her concern lies not with the missions of the organizations receiving the funds but with the apparent lack of transparency and potential conflicts of interest in the allocations.

Community Backlash and Constituent Frustration

Doyle’s concerns reflect a broader sense of frustration among some of Hanif’s constituents. She described Hanif as “completely inaccessible” and criticized her behavior toward community members. Doyle noted that Hanif had no physical office for over a year and, when her office finally opened, she was often “outright rude” to constituents. Doyle’s grievances are not unique, as others in the district have also expressed dissatisfaction with Hanif’s representation.

Doyle’s frustration with Hanif’s funding decisions was further highlighted by her observation that the allocations seemed to align with her personal life. “It’s like now we’re married, this organization is going to get $50,000,” Doyle remarked, referencing the increases in funding after Hanif’s relationship with Younus became official. She added, “You don’t do that—and if you do, you tell people you’re doing it. I liked her better when she was single in Gowanus with a cat.” Doyle’s comments highlight the perception that Hanif’s personal life may have unduly influenced her use of taxpayer money.

Hanif’s Political Stance and Controversial History

Hanif has long been a polarizing figure in New York City politics, particularly due to her vocal anti-Israel stance and pro-Palestinian advocacy. Representing neighborhoods with significant Jewish populations, such as Park Slope and Kensington, her positions have often put her at odds with some of her constituents. In 2023, Hanif was arrested at a “Ceasefire Now Rally for Gaza,” where protesters chanted anti-Israel slogans. She was also one of only two council members to vote against establishing an “End Jewish Hatred Day” in New York, further fueling tensions with her constituents.

These actions have led to accusations of