New York City Mayor Eric Adams, a Democrat, has been indicted in a federal investigation into the financing of his 2021 mayoral campaign.
Called on to Step Down
The indictment was revealed by The New York Times on Tuesday evening, according to Ziare, though specific charges have not yet been detailed.
The probe, led by the Manhattan U.S. Attorney’s Office, has reportedly been investigating allegations of illegal campaign donations from construction companies with ties to Turkey.
The indictment comes during a series of high-profile resignations within Adams’ administration, further shaking the city’s leadership. Earlier on Tuesday, Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez publicly called for Adams to step down "for the good of the city."
Adams, 64, has proclaimed his innocence, stating:
"I have always known that if I stood up for the interests of New Yorkers, I would be targeted – and I have become one." He added, "If I am charged, I am innocent and will fight with all my strength."
Four Federal Investigations
The mayor's office is currently the focus of at least four federal investigations, three of which are led by the Manhattan U.S. Attorney’s Office. These probes also involve close associates of Adams, adding to the political and legal pressure.
Adams' administration has been further weakened by the recent resignations of key officials. Health Commissioner Ashwin Vasan and Education Chancellor David C. Banks, both close to the mayor, announced their departures this week.
Banks oversees the city's vast public school system, serving nearly one million students. Police Commissioner Edward Caban also resigned in September, just one year after taking charge of the NYPD’s 36,000 officers.
Although Adams successfully ran on a platform to reduce crime, his popularity has plunged to 28% by the end of 2023, according to recent polls. Rising costs of living and a housing crisis have left many New Yorkers frustrated as the city prepares for the 2025 mayoral primary.
