By William J. Furney
New York City Mayor Eric Adams faces federal criminal charges following a long-running investigation into corruption. Adams, who is the first sitting mayor in the city’s history to be indicted, insists he is innocent and plans to continue serving while fighting the charges.
“I will request an immediate trial so New Yorkers can hear the truth,” Adams, a Democrat, said in a video statement on Wednesday.
The exact charges, reportedly tied to illegal donations during Adams’ 2021 mayoral campaign, remain under seal but are expected to be revealed soon. Federal authorities are looking into Adams’ alleged connections to foreign governments, including Turkey, and whether his campaign accepted improper donations funneled through a Brooklyn construction firm.
The FBI seized Adams’ electronic devices last November, with further inquiries targeting top city officials. Multiple resignations within the administration, including Police Commissioner Edward Caban and Public Schools Chancellor David Banks, have followed as the investigation intensifies. Banks’ resignation came after reports that federal agents had seized his phones.
The mayor’s attorneys have disputed the allegations, emphasising that their independent investigation found no illegal activity. “We have identified extensive evidence undermining the reported theories of federal prosecution as to the mayor,” Adams’ legal team said in a statement that stressed their cooperation with federal authorities.
As news of the indictment broke, several high-profile Democratic politicians, including New York City Comptroller Brad Lander and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, called for Adams to resign. “The most appropriate path forward is for him to step down so that New York City can get the full focus its leadership demands,” Lander posted on X, formlerly Twitter.
But Adams remains adamant that he will not leave office, citing his commitment to New York City. “You elected me to lead this city, and lead it I will,” he said.
The charges are expected to have significant political ramifications, especially with the 2025 mayoral election. Adams, a former police officer, was seen as a strong contender for re-election but now faces an uphill battle amid increasing opposition within his party. Several potential challengers, including Lander, are preparing to mount campaigns against the embattled mayor.
If Adams is forced out of office, Public Advocate Jumaane Williams is expected to take over as mayor. The probe has also heightened scrutiny of Adams’ dealings with other foreign entities, including governments from Israel, China and Qatar.
Adams’ defence team is expected to continue pushing for transparency in the coming days as the indictment is unsealed.
Amid the fallout, Mayor Adams remains firm, saying, “I know I’m innocent.”
* Image: File