New York City Mayor Eric Adams (D) was indicted by a federal grand jury on Wednesday as part of an ongoing investigation, according to multiple sources. The indictment, which is reportedly sealed, has left uncertainty about the exact charges Adams will face, as noted by the New York Times.
The federal investigation appears to focus on whether Adams and his 2021 mayoral campaign conspired with the Turkish government to accept illegal foreign donations, according to reports.
Allegations surrounding illegal campaign financing have brought intense scrutiny on the mayor’s administration, with Adams reportedly expected to surrender to authorities early next week, according to the New York Post.
The news of Adams’ indictment comes amid growing turbulence within his administration, as several high-ranking officials have either resigned or been investigated.
This wave of resignations has only intensified calls for Adams to step down, including from notable Democratic figures.
Among those urging him to resign are Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), New York City Councilmember Tiffany Caban, and Assembly member Emily Gallagher.
In a post on X (formerly known as Twitter), Ocasio-Cortez voiced her concerns about Adams’ ability to continue leading the city. “I do not see how Mayor Adams can continue governing New York City,” she wrote. “The flood of resignations and vacancies are threatening government function. Nonstop investigations will make it impossible to recruit and retain a qualified administration. For the good of the city, he should resign.”
The investigation into Adams’ administration has already prompted several high-profile resignations.
Former New York City Police Commissioner Edward Caban stepped down in early September after federal agents initiated a probe into the NYPD’s enforcement of nightclub regulations.
Caban’s resignation raised eyebrows, especially as it coincided with the deepening federal inquiry.
Other officials close to Adams have also come under investigation.
First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright and Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Philip Banks have both had their homes raided by authorities in connection with the probe into Adams’ 2021 campaign.
These raids have further fueled concerns about widespread corruption and potential legal wrongdoing within the mayor’s inner circle.
The indictment of Adams marks a significant escalation in the challenges facing his administration. Since taking office, Adams has faced criticism over his handling of multiple issues, from housing and homelessness to public safety.
However, the mounting legal issues and resignations have now created a political crisis for his administration, which is struggling to maintain operational stability.
With federal investigations ongoing and calls for his resignation growing louder, Adams is now under intense pressure. The indictment, once unsealed, is expected to shed light on the specific charges and the extent of the alleged wrongdoing.
In the meantime, New York City’s political landscape faces uncertainty as the fallout from this investigation continues to unfold.
