NYC's Ex-COVID Adviser Fired Over Secret Party Revelations

Dr. Jay Varma, a key figure in New York City's COVID-19 response, has been dismissed from his role at SIGA Technologies following the emergence of a controversial video. The recording, which surfaced recently, reveals Varma discussing his participation in private gatherings during the height of the pandemic, a period when he was publicly advocating for social distancing measures.

Varma, who served as a senior public health adviser to former Mayor Bill de Blasio from April 2020 to May 2021, played a crucial role in shaping the city's pandemic strategies. His responsibilities included promoting mask usage, encouraging regular testing, and advocating for vaccination once it became available.

The hidden-camera footage, released by a conservative podcaster, captures Varma speaking candidly about attending various social events, including what he described as "deviant, sexual stuff" while simultaneously appearing on television as a face of the city's pandemic response. In the video, Varma acknowledges the potential repercussions had his actions been exposed at the time, stating it "would have been a real embarrassment."

This incident draws parallels to other high-profile cases of public officials flouting COVID-19 guidelines. In 2023, former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson resigned following a government inquiry that revealed he and his staff had attended parties in violation of lockdown rules. Similarly, California Governor Gavin Newsom faced criticism for attending a birthday celebration at the French Laundry restaurant in November 2020, contradicting his own pandemic restrictions.

Varma's case has reignited discussions about the authenticity and credibility of public health leadership during crises. The concept of being one's "authentic self," which Varma references in the video, has gained prominence in recent years but takes on a complex dimension in the context of public health emergencies.

The former health official has acknowledged the authenticity of the video while asserting that the recordings were taken out of context. He admitted to attending at least three private gatherings during his tenure at City Hall, including an August 2020 hotel room party with 8 to 10 people and a larger dance event in May or June 2021.

"I take responsibility for not using the best judgment at the time."

New York City's current administration, led by Mayor Eric Adams, has refrained from commenting on the controversy. However, some local officials, including City Council Member Robert Holden, have called for accountability, highlighting the impact of pandemic policies on millions of New Yorkers.

Varma has defended his efforts in responding to the pandemic, characterizing the video release as part of "dangerous extremist efforts to undermine the public's confidence" in vaccines. He emphasized that decisions made during his tenure were based on the best available science to protect New Yorkers.

This incident underscores the complex challenges faced by public health officials during unprecedented crises, balancing personal conduct with professional responsibilities. As the debate continues, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing scrutiny of leadership actions during the COVID-19 pandemic, now over four years since its onset.