Congressman Hakeem Jeffries Defends Mayor Adams Amid Calls for Resignation

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries recently expressed his support for New York City Mayor Eric Adams, stating that Adams should not resign despite the federal indictment he faces. Speaking during a campaign stop in New Mexico, Jeffries underscored the importance of the presumption of innocence and defended the mayor’s right to a fair trial. Adams is facing multiple charges, including conspiracy, wire fraud, and bribery.

Jeffries’ stance contrasts with growing bipartisan calls for the mayor to step down. Notably, Democratic representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Jerry Nadler have urged Adams to resign in light of the federal probe. Prosecutors recently revealed that additional investigations related to the charges against Adams could result in further indictments of individuals within his circle. Despite these developments, Jeffries maintains that Adams deserves the chance to present his case in court.

Mayor Adams has reiterated his determination not to resign, even as public pressure mounts. A recent poll showed that nearly 70% of New Yorkers believe Adams should step down. However, Jeffries, along with other prominent African American leaders like Reverend Al Sharpton, has called for patience and fairness. Sharpton has argued that Adams, the city’s second Black mayor, should be treated the same as other politicians who have faced legal challenges while remaining in office, such as former New Jersey Senator Bob Menendez.

Adams, meanwhile, has been working to garner support from Black leaders and communities in New York. He has made appearances at local Black churches, where he has vowed to remain in office. “I’m not going to resign. I’m going to reign,” Adams declared during one such visit, signaling his intention to continue serving as mayor despite the ongoing legal battle.

As federal prosecutors continue their investigation, it remains to be seen whether Mayor Adams can maintain public confidence. For now, he has the support of key allies like Jeffries, who are urging New Yorkers to withhold judgment until the legal process concludes.