the funniest explanation I've seen, and therefore the one I'm choosing to believe is true (credit to this Bluesky post from *checks notes* Sen. Lemon Gogurt)
the reporter is from a local NYC outlet called "The City"
this advisor was probably told she'd be meeting up with someone from "the city" and she was supposed to give them cash for something
Brill denied that his client’s payment to THE CITY reporter was nefarious in any way.
“I can see how this looks strange,” Brill said. “But I assure you that Winnie’s intent was purely innocent. In the Chinese culture, money is often given to others in a gesture of friendship and gratitude. Winnie is apologetic and embarrassed by any negative impression or confusion this may have caused.”
incredible. absolutely incredible. Saul Goodman would be proud. claiming it's "Chinese culture" to hand people money concealed in potato chip bags.