(ReclaimingAmerica.net) – Marking the first time a sitting mayor has faced criminal charges while in office, New York City ultra-liberal Mayor Eric Adams was indicted on federal charges of corruption.
The indictment stems from a wide-reaching federal investigation into claims that Adams accepted illegal campaign contributions from foreign governments during his 2021 campaign.
While the New York Times first reported the indictment, it remains sealed and the specific charges are unknown.
Federal prosecutors and the FBI are expected to clarify the situation during a press conference. One of Adams’ lawyers, Brendan Maguire, said that they had not yet been informed of the charges.
In a statement, the mayor maintained his innocence, suggesting that the investigation and charges are politically driven.
“I always knew that if I stood my ground for New Yorkers that I would be a target — and a target I became. If I am charged, I am innocent and I will fight this with every ounce of my strength and spirit,” Adams stated.
Likewise, the charges likely relate to accusations that Adams’ campaign collaborated with the Turkish government, accepting illegal donations from Turkish real-estate developers.
In recent weeks, as the investigation intensified, key members of Adams’ administration, including the police commissioner, schools chancellor and chief legal counsel, have resigned.
Nearly a year ago, the FBI raided the home of Brianna Suggs, Adams’ top fundraiser. That was the first in a series of federal raids targeting the mayor’s staff.
By July, authorities had subpoenaed Adams’ administration for various documents, including travel records and fundraising activities.
In September, federal agents seized phones from several top officials, including Police Commissioner Edward A. Caban, Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright, Schools Chancellor David C. Banks, and Senior Adviser Timothy Pearson.
Moreover, the indictment came shortly after Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) called for Adams to step down.
“The flood of resignations and vacancies are threatening government function,” AOC said. “Nonstop investigations will make it impossible to recruit and retain a qualified administration. For the good of the city, he should resign.”
Following the indictment, others echoed AOC’s sentiment. City comptroller and mayoral candidate Brad Lander said, “The most appropriate path forward is for him to step down so that New York City can get the full focus its leadership demands.”
Several Democrat officials, including council members Lincoln Restler and Shahana Hanif and State Assemblywoman Emily Gallagher, also called for Adams’s resignation.
Adams recently stated that he would not step down. However, if he changes his mind, Public Advocate Jumaane Williams will become acting mayor and set a date for a special election.
Williams’ spokesperson said:
“The news of this indictment is itself incredibly serious. As the facts emerge, the public advocate will have more to say to the people of New York City, and right now, he is focused on how best to ensure that New Yorkers can regain trust, confidence, and stability in city government.”
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