NEW YORK – With former President Donald Trump expected to return to the White House, speculation is growing around his potential influence on New York City Politics And legal landscape– particularly regarding embattled New York City Mayor Eric Adams.

Many are wondering what impact Trump’s possible re-election could have on Adams’ ongoing legal battles, with The city describing a possible pardon as “a major stroke of luck” for him. »

Several potential courses of action for Trump have been proposed, outlining ways he could remedy Adams’ legal situation. One option is to order the charges against Adams withdrawn, replace Manhattan U.S. Attorney Damian Williams and appoint a new prosecutor, or – perhaps most directly – grant Adams a presidential pardon before the mayoral primary in April next year.

According to The City, “the most direct path would be to pardon Adams” rather than trying more procedural approaches which could lead to delays and legal challenges.

Days after Trump’s election victory, Mayor Adams quickly emphasized his intention to work with the Trump administrationeven signaling a change in its approach to the migrant crisis by announcing an end to the controversial conflict in the city. migrant credit card program.

“We will work with the new administration and Congress to develop a realistic and compassionate national strategy for our immigration system,” Adams said, reaffirming New York City’s historic role as “a city of immigrants and a beacon of freedom throughout the world.

Trump’s position on Adams’ indictment

Former President Donald Trump openly commented on Adams’ legal troubles, comparing them to his own experiences with the New York justice system.

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“I just want to be kind because I know what it’s like to be persecuted by the DOJ for speaking out against open borders,” Trump said at the Al Smith dinner in October. “We were persecuted, Eric. I was persecuted, and so were you, Eric.”

Before the election, Trump said he anticipated indicting Adams because of the mayor’s vocal opposition to New York’s management of the migrant crisis. “About a year ago, I saw (Adams) talking about how illegal immigrants were hurting our city and that the federal government should pay us,” Trump said. “I said, ‘You know what? He’ll be indicted within a year.’ And I was absolutely right because that’s what we have.”

Yet despite his criticism, Trump acknowledged Adams’ favorable comments about him, comparing him to former Mayor Bill de Blasio, whom he called “the worst mayor ever.”

In terms of the fairness of the trial, Trump extended his best wishes to the mayor, highlighting what he sees as injustices within the Justice Department.

What was Adams accused of?

Mayor Adams is currently facing five counts alleging that “for nearly a decade, Adams sought and accepted improper and valuable benefits, such as luxury international travel, including from wealthy businessmen.” foreign affairs and at least one representative of the Turkish government seeking to gain influence over him. ”

New York City Mayor Eric Adams attends a press conference after being subpoenaed by the federal grand jury at New York City Hall on August 16, 2024 in New York. Local media reports that federal prosecutors have served Adams with more grand jury subpoenas.

He is accused of raising thousands of dollars in illegal campaign contributions, including wire fraud and conspiracy. Among the benefits, according to the indictment, were flight upgrades and luxury travel perks worth $100,000, provided by Turkish officials and other foreign nationals in hopes of influence Adams’ policies.

READ THE FULL CHARGE HERE

Adams response and political positioning

Amid ongoing legal challenges, Adams has repeatedly refused to criticize Trump, even when asked if he was hoping for a pardon.

He has pleaded not guilty to the charges against him and expressed his commitment to remaining in office while preparing his defense. Adams also expressed his willingness to work with the new Trump administration, particularly on immigration policy – ​​a major point of tension for the city.

Count 1: Conspiracy to commit wire fraud, federal program bribery, and receive campaign contributions from foreign nationals

• Count 2: Electronic fraud
• Count 3: Solicitation of a contribution by a foreign national
• Count 4: Solicitation of a contribution by a foreign national
• Count 5: Corruption