Democratic New York City mayoral candidates are relying on the Trump-Adams relationship to generate campaign donations and backing from President Trump-hating New Yorkers.
Campaign teams representing Comptroller Brad Lander, former Comptroller Scott Stringer, Brooklyn state Sen. Zellnor Myrie and other progressive candidates have launched communication efforts via email, text messages and social platforms to mobilise support from Trump-opposing New Yorkers. This followed the US Department of Justice’s Monday directive to federal prosecutors to dismiss Adams’ bribery case.
“While Trump’s DOJ has the power to drop these charges, New Yorkers — not the president — have the power to pick a new mayor and give the greatest city in the world a fresh start,” stated a Tuesday email from Stringer’s campaign.
Progressive candidates in other electoral contests are adopting similar tactics, including southern Brooklyn Councillor Justin Brannan, who previously supported Adams. “Eric Adams is getting his charges dismissed. He went to Trump, kissed the ring, and New Yorkers will suffer for it,” stated a Tuesday text message.
“It’s like red meat for any Democrat in the city right now,” he said.
Trump-Adams relationship: How it changed since incitement of New York City Mayor
Adams faces corruption charges, including conspiracy, bribery, wire fraud and soliciting foreign contributions, with his trial set for April. He maintains his innocence.
His legal representative strongly denies any arrangement with the Justice Department linking immigration enforcement cooperation to the potential dismissal of charges.
Following the election, Adams has sought closer ties with President Trump. On Friday, he expressed support for the administration’s strict immigration policies. During a Fox and Friends appearance alongside Trump’s border official Tom Homan, their discussion of an agreement raised significant legal and ethical concerns among New York prosecutors.
Homan stated: “If he doesn’t come through, I’ll be back in New York city, and we won’t be sitting on the couch, ‘I’ll be in his office, up his butt, saying, ‘Where the hell is the agreement we came to?'”
Adams replied: “We’re going to deliver for the safety of the people of this city.”
The decision to dismiss charges against Adams lies with Judge Dale Ho, not the Department of Justice. The judge might require a hearing to question Justice Department officials about any potential arrangements with Adams.
