New York City’s only modern-era mayor to be indicted while in office, Eric Adams, is winding down his term amid a flurry of corruption charges, plummeting approval ratings, and a pivot toward former President Donald Trump.
The Rise and Promise
Adams, 65, entered office in January 2022 with swaggering confidence, promising a government unlike any other and proclaiming himself the “future of the Democratic Party.” He was the second Black mayor in city history and guided New York through the COVID-19 pandemic, linking the city’s rebound to his own rise from working-class Queens.
Crime and Economic Agenda
Adams focused on slashing crime and re-activating the economy. He increased street and subway patrols, reinstated a controversial anti-crime unit, and appointed the department’s first female police commissioner. He also installed many former police allies, some with alleged misconduct.
Public Image and Lifestyle
Adams frequently visited private clubs and upscale restaurants to “test the product” and “bring swagger back.” Reporters found he often ordered branzino, despite claiming to be vegan, and he declined to disclose who paid for his meals or flights. When asked about his diet, he described himself as “perfectly imperfect.”
Corruption Investigation
A federal investigation began quietly early in his term. In September 2024, prosecutors filed fraud and bribery charges, accusing Adams of allowing Turkish officials and other businesspeople to buy influence with illegal contributions and steep discounts on overseas trips. Phones were seized from the mayor, his police commissioner, schools chancellor, and several deputy mayors.
Leadership Fallout
The charges prompted resignations and a mass exodus of leadership. An adviser was indicted in a separate bribery scheme, another resigned after handing cash to a reporter, and several police department allegations involved long-time friends Adams had placed in high positions. Sheena Wright, former first deputy mayor, said, “There was one City Hall made up of dedicated and competent leaders focused on executing his priorities.” She added, “There was another City Hall made up of people who knew the mayor for a long time, and who were allowed to operate outside the norms of government.”
Political Realignment
Facing low approval and possible prison time, Adams aligned with President Donald Trump, avoiding criticism of the Republican party and hinting at a party switch. A Justice Department memo, written in two pages, dismissed the corruption case, citing interference with Trump’s immigration agenda. Evan Thies, a close adviser, called the memo “a nuclear bomb.” He recalled, “It seemed to confirm the belief that he had traded his duty to New Yorkers for his personal freedom.”
Current Status
Adams denied striking a deal with the Trump administration and continued to blame a broad conspiracy. He abandoned his re-election campaign in September, endorsing former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, whom he called a “snake and a liar.” As of late December, his plans after leaving office are unclear. He has taken a third international trip, this time to Mexico.
Key Takeaways
- Eric Adams was the only modern-era NYC mayor indicted while in office.
- Federal charges allege bribery, fraud, and influence-purchasing involving Turkish officials.
- His political future remains uncertain amid declining approval and a shift toward Trump ties.
As Adams exits office, New York City faces a leadership vacuum and a city that once thrived under his promise of swagger now grapples with corruption and a divided public.
