Federal prosecutors have taken a significant step in their investigation into New York City Mayor Eric Adams’ 2021 campaign by issuing subpoenas. The probe, which has been ongoing, recently escalated with the receipt of subpoenas by the administration in July, as confirmed by City Hall. Attorneys representing Mayor Adams and his campaign are currently responding to the subpoenas, stating they have not found any evidence of illegal activity by the mayor.
The subpoenas, initially reported by The New York Times, mark the latest development in an investigation that has raised concerns about the city’s leadership. The investigation came to public attention in November when federal agents seized Adams’ electronic devices and conducted a raid at a top fundraiser’s home. This news about federal subpoenas arrives just before Adams is scheduled to attend the Democratic National Convention next week.
While prosecutors have not publicly disclosed details of the investigation, The Times previously reported that investigators were exploring potential links between the Adams campaign and the Turkish government regarding donations from foreign sources, possibly funneled through straw donors. The probe also involves scrutiny of Adams’ utilization of New York City’s matching funds program, which offers candidates a substantial match on initial donations from city residents.
In an interview broadcast on WABC, Mayor Adams affirmed his cooperation with the subpoenas, highlighting the importance of responding to such legal requests. He expressed confidence that the investigations will reveal no criminal wrongdoing. Adams has emphasized that he had no knowledge of any improper fundraising activities and reiterated his commitment to assisting the federal authorities with requested information.
The FBI and federal prosecutors have chosen not to provide comments on the matter. Details regarding the specifics of the subpoenas, including the information being sought, were not disclosed by City Hall or the mayor’s legal team. Reports indicate that the subpoenas are related to fundraising activities, travel records of Adams and associates, and involve the collection of text messages and relevant documents.
Additionally, the investigation is said to be examining whether Adams, during his time as Brooklyn’s borough president, potentially influenced city approvals for a Manhattan building housing diplomatic facilities in cooperation with the Turkish government. The mayor insists he was fulfilling his duties as an elected official to assist constituents. The former fire commissioner and the Turkish consulate have refrained from making statements on the matter.