New York City Mayor Eric Adams is fighting to maintain his political standing after being indicted on federal corruption charges. As the scandal unfolds, pressure on Governor Kathy Hochul to remove him is growing, with the city’s leadership and public opinion divided over his future. Legal troubles not only complicate Adams’ re-election campaign but also raise questions about the governance of New York’s largest city.
Federal prosecutors have charged Adams with five different counts, including wire fraud, bribery, misuse of campaign funds, and being a foreign agent of Turkey. The indictment alleges that Adams accepted kickbacks and illegal gifts from contractors seeking favorable treatment in the awarding of city contracts. The misconduct reportedly began during his tenure as Brooklyn Borough President and continued into his time as mayor.
Prosecutors argue that Adams used campaign funds for personal luxuries, such as vacations and high-end events, and offered city contracts to private firms in exchange for cash and gifts. Documents presented to the court show financial records and communications between Adams and business leaders allegedly involved in the scheme.
His interactions with the Turkish government—particularly the endorsement of real estate projects tied to the Erdogan regime—suggest a troubling coziness with foreign powers that undermines public trust. For example, it is alleged that he was given gifts in the form of discounted hotel rooms and commodities in exchange for not enforcing a new fire safety code on a new in-construction Turkish consulate in Midtown. Such behavior has not only raised ethical red flags but also put the city in a precarious position, exposing it to risks associated with foreign influence.
Mayor Adams is the first New York City mayor in history to ever be indicted, and over a dozen members of his cabinet have resigned, retired, or been fired over their involvement in these scandals, including Head of the DoE David Banks, Police Commissioner Edward Caban, and First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright. The mayor’s steady financial campaign stream dried nearly overnight following the investigation, and there have been increasing calls for NY Governor Kathy Hocul to remove Adams from office. This has left the US’s financial capital in extreme limbo, with its future now uncertain.
Adams, who pleaded not guilty during his September 25 court appearance, has denied the allegations. “These charges are baseless, and I will fight to clear my name,” he said in a press statement. Adams insists that the investigation is politically motivated and has vowed to remain in office while fighting the charges.
The indictment comes at a critical time for Adams as he gears up for the 2025 mayoral election. Once seen as a promising figure with a focus on crime reduction and economic recovery, Adams now faces a significant political setback. Key supporters, including labor unions and prominent Democratic donors, have distanced themselves while his campaign strategy has shifted toward damage control.
Political analysts note that the indictment could alienate both moderate and progressive voters, leaving Adams vulnerable in an already contentious race. “The timing of this indictment could prove devastating for Adams,” said political strategist Rachel Klein. “Even if he avoids conviction, the cloud of corruption will be hard to escape during the campaign.”
Adams’ opponents have seized on the scandal, with several mayoral candidates demanding his resignation. They argue that the city needs stable leadership to address pressing issues such as homelessness, crime, and housing shortages. Adams, however, has doubled down, asserting that he will remain focused on governing despite the legal battle.
As the scandal deepens, attention has turned to Governor Kathy Hochul, who has the authority under the New York City Charter to begin proceedings to remove the mayor from office. Several state lawmakers and advocacy groups have called on Hochul to intervene, arguing that Adams’ indictment undermines public trust and hampers the city’s ability to function effectively.
“Adams is no longer fit to govern,” said Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas, a prominent critic. “The people of New York City deserve leadership free from corruption.”
The removal of a sitting mayor is rare and would require Hochul to initiate a state-led inquiry, which could culminate in Adams’ suspension or removal. However, Hochul has been cautious in her public comments, saying she wants to let the legal process play out before making a decision.
Political insiders suggest that Hochul is wary of setting a precedent for intervention, which could have broader implications for state and local relations. “This is a politically delicate situation,” said Steven Smith, a professor of public policy. “If Hochul acts too quickly, it could backfire, but inaction could also damage her standing with New York City voters.”
The New York City Charter outlines multiple pathways for addressing the potential removal of a mayor under criminal investigation, including impeachment by the City Council. Several council members have floated the idea, arguing that Adams’ continued presence in office is untenable.
If pursued, impeachment would require a majority vote by the City Council to initiate proceedings, followed by a trial presided over by judges from New York’s Appellate Division. While this route remains an option, city leaders appear reluctant to act until the case against Adams progresses further.
The situation has created uncertainty within City Hall, with some officials concerned that an impeachment process could paralyze city operations. “We are in uncharted territory,” said a senior council member. “Whatever happens, we need to move carefully to avoid destabilizing the city at a critical time.”
The indictment of Mayor Adams has thrown New York City’s political landscape into chaos, leaving its leadership in a precarious position while city officials are scrambling to manage essential services and maintain public trust amid the ongoing uncertainty. As the legal proceedings move forward, New Yorkers are left to wonder whether their mayor will weather the storm—or if the city will need to brace for yet another transition in leadership.