
New York City Mayor Eric Adams faces federal criminal charges, becoming the first sitting mayor in the city’s history to be indicted while in office.
At a Glance
- Mayor Eric Adams indicted on federal criminal charges, including bribery and wire fraud
- Charges relate to his 2021 mayoral campaign and conduct dating back to 2015
- Federal investigators searched Gracie Mansion and seized Adams’ electronic devices
- Adams denies wrongdoing and vows to fight the charges
- Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez calls for Adams’ resignation
Historic Indictment Rocks New York City
In an unprecedented turn of events, New York City Mayor Eric Adams has been indicted on federal criminal charges, marking a significant moment in the city’s political history. The charges, which include conspiracy to commit bribery, bribery, wire fraud, and contributions by a foreign national, stem from an extensive investigation into Adams’ 2021 mayoral campaign and his actions dating back to 2015 when he served as Brooklyn borough president.
The indictment follows weeks of intense scrutiny, including searches of Adams’ official residence, Gracie Mansion, and the seizure of his electronic devices. Federal prosecutors have also subpoenaed Adams, his campaign, and City Hall for information on his schedule, travel, and connections to the Turkish government.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams was indicted on criminal charges following escalating federal investigations against him and his administration. https://t.co/sdpfbEPwSy
— FOX 5 DC (@fox5dc) September 26, 2024
Mayor Adams Denies Wrongdoing
In response to the indictment, Mayor Adams has vehemently denied any wrongdoing and released a video statement declaring his innocence. The mayor, who was elected nearly three years ago on a promise to reduce crime, now finds himself at the center of a major legal battle.
“I will fight these injustices with every ounce of my strength and my spirit,” he says in the video, adding “I am innocent” and he plans to request an “immediate trial so New Yorkers can hear the truth”, Adams said.
Adams’ lawyer has stated that the mayor has not been arrested and looks forward to his day in court. However, the charges have already sent shockwaves through the city’s political landscape, with some calling for the mayor’s resignation.
Political Fallout and Calls for Resignation
The indictment has sparked immediate political consequences for Adams. Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has called for the mayor’s resignation, citing the ongoing investigations as a hindrance to effective governance.
“I do not see how Mayor Adams can continue governing New York City,” Ocasio-Cortez wrote on X. “For the good of the city, he should resign.”
The mayor’s popularity has already been on the decline due to various challenges, including an influx of international migrants. Now, with this indictment, Adams faces a growing list of Democratic challengers for re-election. The situation has also raised questions about the potential for his removal from office, a power that rests with New York Governor Kathy Hochul.
Broader Implications for New York City
The indictment of Mayor Adams is not just a personal legal matter but has broader implications for the governance of New York City. Several officials close to Adams have already resigned or are under investigation, creating a vacuum in city leadership. If Adams were to be removed from office, Jumaane Williams, the city’s public advocate, would become acting mayor.
As the legal process unfolds, New Yorkers are left to grapple with the uncertainty surrounding their city’s leadership. The indictment of a sitting mayor on federal charges is uncharted territory for New York City, and the coming weeks and months will likely see intense scrutiny of both the legal case against Adams and the city’s ability to function effectively amid this unprecedented crisis.