Uber Refused To Hire Michael Cohen
Image by Getty Images
Michael Cohen was paid generously by a few major companies — Swiss drugmaker Novartis, AT&T and lobbying firm Squire Patton Boggs — to serve as a political consultant by reportedly touting his relationship with President Trump and promising access to the White House. But Uber didn’t want any part in that.
The Wall Street Journal reported Monday that Cohen, Trump’s lawyer and “fixer,” pitched Uber but was repeatedly denied.
The ride-sharing company cited Cohen’s ownership of New York taxi medallions as a potential conflict of interest. He modified his pitch in response to those objections, reminding the company he was “the president’s lawyer,” a person close to the company said.
Uber’s office was “bemused,” the person said.
Uber itself has been accused of operating in legal gray areas. Under former CEO Travis Kalanick, Uber was criticized for its sexist work environment, and for allegedly retaliating against employees who complained. Kalanick was also caught on camera berating an Uber driver, and plans were in place to sabotage business rivals, such as Lyft.
Contact Alyssa Fisher at [email protected] or on Twitter, @alyssalfisher
I’m personally matching all gifts to the Forward, up to $36,000. Can I match your gift now?
Hello, fellow Forward reader! I’m Joel Brown, a Forward reader and supporter for more than 15 years, and currently the chair of the board of directors.
I’m an avid Forward reader because it ticks so many of my essential boxes: excellent journalism, Jewish focus and diverse viewpoints. In today’s political climate, what I most appreciate is the Forward’s independence — made possible by the generosity of its membership.
The Forward is committed to bringing you unbiased, nuanced Jewish news. From my position as board chair, I see an exciting future as we expand our position as the definitive independent voice of contemporary American Judaism.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
Support our mission to tell the Jewish story fully and fairly.
