New York City Mayor Eric Adams spoke publicly on Tuesday, just one day after the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) ordered federal prosecutors in New York to drop their case against him. In a brief five-minute statement, Adams called the case an unnecessary ordeal and emphasized his commitment to moving forward.
Adams Responds to DOJ Decision
Adams did not take questions but firmly defended his innocence.
“As I said from the outset, I never broke the law and I never would,” Adams stated. “I would never put any personal benefit above my solemn responsibility as your mayor. I never asked anyone to break the law on my behalf or on behalf of my campaign. Never.”
The mayor dismissed allegations that he had abused his power, noting that no witness had come forward publicly to accuse him and that prosecutors failed to present any new evidence.
“This case will no longer continue,” he said, adding that he appreciated the Justice Department’s “honesty” in handling the matter.
Adams acknowledged that some New Yorkers may still question his character and leadership, saying the experience had been “humbling”. He promised to work to restore public trust, pointing to his administration’s accomplishments in crime reduction, affordable housing, job creation, and the migrant crisis.
“Hidden beneath all the shocking headlines, rumors, and accusations, the real news is that my administration has delivered for the working people of New York,” Adams said.
DOJ Drops Charges but Leaves Door Open for Future Action
Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove sent a memo to federal prosecutors in the Southern District of New York, directing them to dismiss the case.
However, Bove clarified that the DOJ did not evaluate the strength of the evidence but instead made its decision based on concerns about timing and political optics.
“The timing of the charges and the role of the former U.S. attorney who brought the case created appearances of impropriety,” Bove wrote.
He also stated that the ongoing investigation had made it difficult for Mayor Adams to focus fully on major issues, such as illegal immigration and violent crime.
While the charges are being dismissed, the Southern District of New York can reconsider prosecuting Adams after the November 2025 mayoral election. The judge overseeing the case must still formally approve the dismissal.
Mayor’s Defense Attorney Declares Victory
Adams’ lawyer, Alex Spiro, welcomed the DOJ’s decision.
“As I said from the outset, the mayor is innocent and he would prevail. Today, he has.”
Adams’ Relationship with Trump Administration Under Scrutiny
Adams’ recent interactions with former President Donald Trump have sparked speculation.
- The mayor met with Trump in Florida before the former president took office.
- Trump had previously suggested he might pardon Adams but claimed their meeting did not discuss the legal case.
- Adams canceled Martin Luther King Jr. Day appearances to attend Trump’s inauguration.
- He then returned to Washington, D.C., last week for the National Prayer Breakfast.
These meetings have led to questions about Adams’ political alignment and strategy, especially as New York City has largely avoided federal immigration enforcement actions under the Trump administration.
Immigration Policies & Concerns Over Sanctuary City Laws
As federal immigration agents increase enforcement efforts nationwide, Adams has indicated that New York City may cooperate in some cases.
- The DOJ recently sued Chicago and Illinois over their sanctuary city policies, but New York was not targeted.
- Sources claim Adams’ relationship with the White House helped prevent a similar lawsuit.
- Adams is expected to meet with Border Czar Tom Homan on Thursday.
Criticism Over Adams’ Memo to City Officials
Adams’ stance on immigration enforcement has caused concern among advocacy groups and fellow lawmakers.
A memo he issued to city agencies before Trump’s inauguration provided unclear guidance on interacting with federal immigration agents, stating:
“[If] you reasonably feel threatened or fear for your safety, you should give the officer the information they have asked for or let them enter the site.”
Critics argue this opens the door to violating sanctuary city laws. The mayor’s office has since stated they are finalizing new guidelines for city workers.
Congressional Testimony on Sanctuary Cities
Adams will join the mayors of Boston, Chicago, and Denver to testify before Congress at an upcoming House Oversight Committee hearing on sanctuary city policies.
Background on the Charges Against Adams
Adams was indicted in September 2024 on five counts of bribery, conspiracy, and campaign finance violations.
Allegations Included:
- Accepting illegal campaign donations and luxury travel upgrades from a Turkish official and foreign nationals.
- Using straw donors to access public matching funds for his campaign.
At least two members of Adams’ administration are facing criminal charges, and over a dozen officials have resigned or retired amid investigations.
In December 2024, a grand jury heard from new witnesses, and prosecutors hinted that additional charges could be coming. However, in January 2025, DOJ officials met with Manhattan federal prosecutors and Adams’ legal team to discuss dropping the charges.
Next Steps for Adams and the Investigation
Although the charges are being dismissed, the Southern District of New York has the option to reopen the case after the 2025 mayoral election.
Meanwhile, Adams must:
- Regain public trust following a high-profile legal battle.
- Clarify his position on federal immigration enforcement and sanctuary city policies.
- Navigate ongoing political scrutiny regarding his ties to Trump.
For now, Adams is focused on governing and ensuring that his administration moves forward despite the legal and political controversy.
