Image Credit: Anadolu Agency via Getty Images
Powered By
NYC Schools Chancellor David Banks is set to resign amid ongoing turmoil within the Adams administration.
In 2021, Eric Adams won the race to become New York City’s 110th mayor, with a campaign centered on crime reduction, enhancing public safety, and promoting social equity. However, the tides have turned dramatically as federal prosecutors have indicted him following a corruption probe, making him the first sitting mayor in the city’s history to face such charges while in office.
“I always knew that standing firm for New Yorkers would make me a target – and now, I am that target,” Adams stated in a video message released late Wednesday, vowing to maintain his position despite the gravity of the allegations. “If I’m charged, I’m innocent, and I will battle this with every ounce of my strength and spirit.”
While the particulars of the charges against Adams remain murky, prosecutors are anticipated to clarify the situation in a formal announcement scheduled for Thursday, according to reports from the New York Times.
As events unfold, here’s what you need to know about Mayor Adams, including his political affiliation and the implications of the indictment.
Is Mayor Adams a Democrat or Republican?
Adams is affiliated with the Democratic Party. Prior to his tenure as mayor, he held roles as a New York State Senator and the Brooklyn Borough President, both within the framework of the Democratic Party. His 2021 mayoral campaign promoted progressive ideals, focusing on public safety reforms, economic equity, and social justice.
What Does an Indictment Indicate?
An indictment represents a formal accusation that an individual has committed a crime. This legal step is typically initiated by a grand jury, which reviews evidence presented by prosecutors to establish whether sufficient cause exists to charge the person with a criminal offense. Importantly, an indictment does not denote guilt; it simply indicates that there is enough evidence to proceed to trial.
What Sparked the Investigation into Mayor Adams?
The investigation has scrutinized potential foreign donations and inquiries into whether Adams attempted to influence Fire Department officials in approving a new high-rise consulate building for the Turkish government, despite pressing safety concerns. Moreover, investigators are examining whether Adams accepted costly flights and upgrades from Turkish Airlines, which has links to the Turkish government. They are also delving into connections with a Brooklyn construction firm operated by Turkish Americans and a small university in Washington, D.C., associated with Turkish interests.
The investigation, which remained confidential until its public disclosure in late 2023, came to light following an early morning raid by FBI agents at the Brooklyn residence of Adams’ chief fundraiser, Brianna Suggs.
Adams has faced scrutiny previously, having been investigated four times by the department over associations with convicted individuals, such as the infamous Mike Tyson, for whom he provided security shortly after Tyson’s release from prison following a 1995 rape conviction.
Have Calls for Mayor Adams’ Resignation Emerged?
On Wednesday, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez conveyed her belief that “it’s hard to see how Mayor Adams can continue” in his current capacity. The city’s comptroller, Brad Lander, shared a message on X labeling the situation as “a sad day for New Yorkers,” asserting that the people deserve trustworthy leadership. Lander, a Democrat, is also campaigning to unseat Adams in the upcoming 2025 gubernatorial race.
Scott Stringer, former NYC comptroller and a Democratic contender in next year’s mayoral primary, declared, “There is simply zero chance that the wheels of government will move forward at full steam. What we have is a municipal government in shambles. The mayor must resign for the city’s wellbeing.”
Jessica Ramos, a progressive state senator from Queens, refrained from outright calling for Adams to step down but suggested his capacity to govern has eroded. “Over the past two and a half years, this administration has made the city more costly, while those close to the mayor have profited,” she remarked in a statement on X, characterizing it as a betrayal to hardworking New Yorkers.
While there are no requirements for Adams to resign, and New York voters lack the power to recall the mayor, the New York City Charter gives Governor Kathy Hochul the authority to remove him. As of late Wednesday, Hochul had not publicly addressed the indictment but holds the power to suspend Adams for up to 30 days, subsequently replacing him after providing him with the charges and a chance to respond.
“Governor Hochul is aware of these serious reports and is keeping a close watch on the situation. Any further commentary would be premature until law enforcement confirms the matter,” said Avi Small, the governor’s press secretary, late Wednesday.
Who Would Assume Mayor Adams’ Role?
Should Mayor Adams step down or become unable to fulfill his duties, NYC’s Public Advocate, Jumaane Williams, would take over as acting mayor. A nonpartisan special election would follow to fill the vacancy.
Williams has not called for Adams’ resignation but released a statement underscoring the seriousness of the indictment. “As facts emerge, the public advocate will have more to relay to New Yorkers. Right now, he’s focused on restoring trust, confidence, and stability in city government,” the statement read. However, Williams has expressed skepticism regarding the mayor’s ability to navigate the federal investigations and indicated he is ready to step in if required. “That’s part of the role,” he explained. “Is it something you hope will happen? No.”