New York Mayor Eric Adams is facing pressure due to a federal bribery indictment and multiple investigations, leading to several close allies resigning or retiring. The latest to leave is Philip Banks III, the city’s deputy mayor for criminal justice. Despite calls for resignation, Adams has refused to step down and has pleaded not guilty to the charges. Federal prosecutors have hinted at additional charges and ongoing scandals within his administration.
The mayor’s administration has been built around the Banks family and close friends from his time in the NYPD, many of whom have been served with federal search warrants and subpoenas. The NYPD is also reportedly under federal investigation, with the resignation of Police Commissioner Edward Caban and raids on the home of interim Police Commissioner Thomas Donlon.
Despite calls for his resignation, New York Governor Kathy Hochul has not taken action. The mayor has accused the charges against him of being White House payback for his criticism of the Biden administration’s immigration policies.
The mayor’s refusal to step down has led to further scrutiny of his administration and raised questions about the continuity of leadership in New York City. The situation remains tense as the federal investigations continue and the public demands accountability from the mayor and his associates.
Photo credit
www.usatoday.com
