New York City Mayor Eric Adams has been indicted on federal criminal charges following a raid on the homes of his top aides and confidants. The specific charges remain unclear as the indictment is sealed, but Adams has vehemently denied the allegations and vowed to fight them. The indictment is expected to be unsealed and Adams may appear in court on Thursday to address the charges.
Adams’ administration has been under investigation for possible illegal foreign donations from Turkish officials during his 2021 mayoral campaign. Calls for his resignation have intensified from New York leaders and officials, including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and State Senator Zellnor Myrie, who believe Adams should step down given the serious charges he is facing.
The indictment comes amid a wave of political upheaval in New York City, with several top officials resigning in recent weeks due to federal corruption investigations. This includes Police Commissioner Edward Caban, Deputy Mayor for Criminal Justice Philip Banks III, and Schools Chancellor David Banks. Adams’ chief legal advisor Lisa Zornberg also resigned, citing an inability to effectively serve in her position.
The indictment marks a significant milestone as Adams could potentially become the first New York City mayor to be criminally charged while still in office. The city’s charter allows for the removal of the mayor by the governor upon charges, which would result in Public Advocate Jumaane Williams assuming the role of mayor. The situation is fluid, and more details are expected to emerge as the case unfolds.
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