In 2005, Rivera engaged in a feud with "The New York Times" over their allegations that he pushed aside a member of a rescue team in order to be filmed "assisting" a woman in a wheelchair down some steps in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. In the ensuing controversy, Rivera appeared on television and demanded a retraction from the "Times". He further threatened to sue the paper if one was not provided. The "Times" later acknowledged that Rivera did not push aside the woman.