New York City Mayor Eric Adams has been indicted by a federal grand jury, a situation reported by the New York Times. This development poses a significant challenge for the city, occurring shortly after Adams appointed a new schools chief.
The specific charges against Adams remain unknown as the indictment is sealed. Sources indicate that he is expected to turn himself in to authorities early next week.
Adams’ indictment carries both symbolic and practical implications for the nation’s largest school district. Under the mayoral control system, which has been extended under his administration, the mayor oversees approximately 1,600 schools and is responsible for selecting the schools chancellor. Adams, the first sitting New York City mayor to face such charges, can remain in office despite the allegations, but he is under increasing pressure from local and state leaders to resign. The news of the indictment is likely to amplify those calls.
In a statement, Adams expressed his resolve, saying, “I always knew that if I stood my ground for New Yorkers that I would be a target — and a target I became. If I am charged, I am innocent and I will fight this with every ounce of my strength and spirit.”
The indictment raises questions about the city’s leadership, particularly concerning its education system. Schools Chancellor David Banks, who has been under scrutiny amid investigations involving high-ranking officials, announced plans to retire at the end of the year.
Uncertainty surrounds the potential impact of the indictment on Adams’ plan to appoint Melissa Aviles-Ramos as Banks’ successor. An expert from Columbia University’s Teachers College expressed concerns that the situation could hinder the Department of Education’s effectiveness.
Even prior to the indictment news, a growing number of elected officials, including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, had started calling for the mayor’s resignation. If he resigns or is removed from office, the responsibility for education decisions, including the appointment of Aviles-Ramos, would fall to public advocate Jumaane Williams.
Just hours before the indictment news broke, Adams and Banks held a press conference to celebrate Aviles-Ramos’ appointment, with her voicing strong support for the mayor as a symbol of stability.
Several federal investigations have recently affected Adams’ administration, resulting in the departure of multiple high-ranking officials. Reports indicate the indictment stems from an inquiry into whether Adams expedited the approval of a new high-rise Turkish consulate amid safety concerns, following foreign donations to his campaign.
As the indictment news circulated, calls for Adams to resign intensified from various officials, including City Comptroller Brad Lander and state Senator Zellnor Myrie. Senator John Liu emphasized the need for a mayor dedicated to the city’s leadership and stated that Adams, given the current circumstances, must resign for the benefit of all New Yorkers.