NEW YORK — The Democratic mayor of New York City, who is currently facing federal bribery allegations, is defending his recent private meeting with President-elect Donald Trump as the latter prepares to assume office.
On Saturday, Mayor Eric Adams dismissed inquiries about whether his legal troubles or the prospect of a presidential pardon were topics of discussion during his meeting with Trump near his Florida residence. He indicated that the situation is being managed by his legal representatives. “I made it clear a few days ago that my intention was to discuss issues such as city infrastructure, challenges related to migrant asylum seekers, and the stabilization of the situation in the Middle East,” he stated.
Adams emphasized his responsibilities as the mayor of the largest city in the nation, reiterating the importance of dialogue with the president, much like his previous conversations with President Biden. During a statement released Friday night, he confirmed that the meeting focused on critical issues like revitalizing manufacturing jobs in the city and addressing the ceasefire in Gaza, rather than his ongoing legal case.
Trump has openly criticized the allegations against Adams and has suggested that he is willing to consider a pardon for the mayor, who was a registered Republican in the ’90s. Adams is slated to stand trial in April on charges that he received illegal campaign contributions and substantial travel perks from foreign entities in exchange for political favors, including aiding Turkish officials with city approvals for a diplomatic facility in Manhattan.
During his remarks on Saturday, Adams clarified that he does not aim to be in conflict with the incoming Trump administration regarding immigration and other vital matters. “Donald Trump won the popular vote. Donald Trump won the electoral vote,” he noted. He highlighted that the American public has voiced the need for action on border controls, economic development, and job retention.
When questioned about the potential role of city officials as the Trump administration is anticipated to initiate extensive deportation efforts, including raids targeting the Chicago area, Adams refrained from providing specific details. “I’m not going to keep answering the same questions about city agencies’ cooperation,” he remarked. “The law is the law. Next question.”
His comments also included criticism of his own party and the outgoing Biden administration, particularly concerning their handling of the recent influx of migrants. “The current administration has removed $6.9 billion from our city,” he claimed, referencing funds his administration contends have gone towards supporting approximately 250,000 asylum seekers arriving in the city since early 2022. “That money could have been used for our children, families, streets, and security.”
Adams characterized his meeting with Trump as an effort to ensure that New York City receives necessary support, a goal he believes is achievable given Trump’s origins in the city. “I’m optimistic about the next four years with a president that shares my passion for this city,” he expressed. “We will take the necessary steps to advance the interests of everyday New Yorkers.”
