NEW YORK — Mayor Eric Adams of New York City shared that his recent meeting with President-elect Donald Trump focused on the revival of manufacturing jobs within the city and talks surrounding the Gaza ceasefire, steering clear of the mayor’s ongoing federal bribery case. The Democratic mayor made these remarks in a statement following his visit to Florida on Friday. He expressed that he and Trump had a constructive dialogue regarding the needs of New York City and the potential role of the federal government in enhancing the lives of its residents.
Adams clarified, “To be clear, we did not discuss my legal case,” emphasizing that his interactions with the president-elect were geared toward city priorities rather than personal legal troubles.
The mayor’s meeting with Trump drew criticism from several of his potential rivals in the Democratic mayoral primary, who accused him of trying to align himself with Trump in hopes of securing a presidential pardon. In response, Adams defended his actions by stating that those who think the mayor of America’s largest city should refrain from meeting with an incoming president due to political differences are prioritizing politics over the welfare of people.
In September, a federal grand jury formally indicted Adams on charges related to receiving luxury travel benefits and illegal campaign donations from foreign nationals, allegedly in return for aiding Turkish diplomats with fire safety issues at a Manhattan property. Scheduled for trial in April, Adams has pleaded not guilty. Notably, Trump had mentioned in December that he would consider granting Adams a pardon, voicing his criticism of the allegations against him.
During his visit with Trump, Adams also crossed paths with actor Sylvester Stallone, and shared his admiration for the “Rocky” series, as noted in a brief video posted by a New York Times reporter on social media.
When questioned whether their discussion touched upon the newly introduced $9 toll for most drivers entering Manhattan, a measure Trump has vowed to overturn upon his return to office, Adams indicated that he would provide more information on that topic at a later date.
