In 2021, Eric Adams ran for mayor and received, changing into the one hundred and tenth mayor of New York City. His marketing campaign targeted on crime discount, public security, and social fairness.

Now, federal prosecutors have indicted the NYC mayor following a corruption investigation, making the 64-year-old the primary mayor in metropolis historical past to be charged whereas in workplace.

“I always knew that if I stood my ground for New Yorkers, I would become a target – and a target I became,” Adams stated in a video assertion launched late Wednesday, asserting that he’ll stay in workplace regardless of the allegations. “If I am charged, I am innocent, and I will fight this with every ounce of my strength and spirit.”

Details relating to the precise expenses Adams will face are nonetheless unclear, however prosecutors are anticipated to stipulate them on Thursday, based on the New York Times.

As the state of affairs continues to unfold, right here’s extra concerning the mayor, together with his political affiliation and what the indictment means for him.

Is Mayor Adams a Democrat or Republican?

Adams is a member of the Democratic Party. Before changing into mayor, he served as a New York State Senator and was the Brooklyn Borough President, each positions throughout the Democratic Party. His marketing campaign for mayor in 2021 emphasised progressive points, together with public security reforms, financial fairness, and social justice.

What Does Indictment Mean?

An indictment is a proper accusation that an individual has dedicated a criminal offense. It is usually issued by a grand jury, which evaluations proof offered by prosecutors to find out whether or not there may be sufficient trigger to cost the person with a felony offense. An indictment doesn’t indicate guilt; it merely means that there’s enough proof to deliver the case to trial.

Why Did the Investigation into Mayor Adams Start?

The investigation has targeted partly on potential international donations and whether or not Mayor Adams pressured Fire Department officers to approve the opening of a brand new high-rise consulate constructing for the Turkish authorities, regardless of security considerations. Investigators are additionally wanting into whether or not Adams accepted costly flights and upgrades from Turkish Airlines, which is partially owned by the Turkish authorities. Additionally, they’re in search of details about a Brooklyn development firm run by Turkish Americans and a small college in Washington, D.C., with Turkish ties.

The investigation remained confidential till it was publicly revealed in late 2023, when FBI brokers carried out an early morning raid on the Brooklyn residence of Adams’ chief fundraiser, Brianna Suggs.

Adams has beforehand been investigated by the division 4 occasions, together with for associations with people convicted of crimes, comparable to Mike Tyson. He was investigated as a police officer for working safety for Tyson shortly after the boxer’s launch from jail for a rape conviction in 1995.

On Wednesday, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York acknowledged she might “not see how Mayor Adams can continue” in his function.

The metropolis’s comptroller, Brad Lander, expressed in a press release on X that the costs towards Adams mark “a sad day for New Yorkers,” including, “The hardworking people of New York City deserve a city government and leadership they can trust. Right now, they don’t have it.” Lander, a Democrat, is operating to unseat Adams within the 2025 election.

Scott Stringer, the previous NYC comptroller and a Democratic candidate in subsequent 12 months’s mayoral major, stated, “There is simply zero chance that the wheels of government will move forward from this full steam ahead. Instead, we are left with a broken-down train wreck of a municipal government. The mayor needs to resign for the good of the city.”

Jessica Ramos, a progressive New York State senator from Queens, stopped wanting calling for Adams to step down however prompt he has misplaced the flexibility to control. “Over the past two and a half years, this administration has made the city more expensive, while those close to the mayor have benefited financially,” she stated in a press release posted to X. “That’s a betrayal of every hardworking New Yorker.”

While Adams shouldn’t be required to resign and New York voters can not recall the mayor, the New York City Charter grants Governor Kathy Hochul the facility to take away him. As of late Wednesday, Hochul had not commented on the indictment however has the authority to droop Adams for as much as 30 days. She might then take away him after offering him with a replica of the costs and a possibility to defend himself.

“Governor Hochul is aware of these concerning news reports and is monitoring the situation. It would be premature to comment further until the matter is confirmed by law enforcement,” Avi Small, press secretary for the governor, stated late Wednesday evening.

If Mayor Adams steps down or is unable to proceed in workplace, New York City’s Public Advocate Jumaane Williams will change into the appearing mayor. A nonpartisan particular election would then be held to fill the place.

Williams didn’t name for the mayor to resign, however his workplace launched a press release emphasizing that the indictment is “incredibly serious.”

“As the facts emerge, the public advocate will have more to say to the people of New York City. Right now, he is focused on how best to ensure that New Yorkers can regain trust, confidence, and stability in city government,” the assertion stated.

However, Williams just lately informed reporters that he doubts the mayor’s skill to navigate the federal investigations and that he’s ready to take over if mandatory. “That’s part of the job,” he stated. “Is it something that you want to happen? No.”