Politicians Oppose Snooki's Upcoming Appearance At Staten Island Mall
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- How do you end political bickering between a New York Democratic state senator and Republican assemblywoman from Staten Island? One word: Snooki.
The "Jersey Shore" star is slated to appear at the Staten Island Mall on Saturday from noon to 2 p.m. to hype her new line of sunglasses. Thousands are expected to show up for the event.
State Sen. Diane Savino and Assemblywoman Nicole Malliotakis find Nicole "Snooki" Polizzi's actions on the MTV reality show offensive and say the mall is sending the wrong message to young women by hosting the event.
"Our government...spends a lot of money annually to combat things like bullying, binge drinking and teenage sex," Malliotakis told 1010 WINS. "Having Snooki come and highlighting her as a role model for our youth is not a good example."
The politicians believe Snooki shouldn't be celebrated or emulated.
"There's certainly young celebrities who would attract a crowd but yet set forth a better example for our young people in our community," Malliotakis said.
She suggested the mall bring in Taylor Swift, Jordin Sparks or Mandy Moore.
NYS Eyewear Collection released the following statement:
"With the State unemployment rate exceeding 8 percent and the local economy in decline, we respectfully request Senator Diane Savino and Assemblywoman Nicole Malliotakis focus their bipartisan energies on issues of substance to this State's prosperity rather than resort to transparent grandstanding."
"NYS Collection gainfully employs significant amounts of local residents, contributes substantial tax dollars to the State's treasury and this event will deliver well needed consumer traffic to the Staten Island Mall."
The first 500 customers to purchase a pair of the NYS Collection, "Snooki by Nicole Polizzi," shades during the mall event will receive an autographed photo and a chance to meet with Snooki.
The "Princess of Poughkeepsie" will also take her sunglasses tour to the Freehold Mall in New Jersey on Saturday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
No comment from Snooki.
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