Foreign political donations
What is happening with Mayor Eric Adams' criminal case?
Mayor Eric Adams' criminal case stands at a critical juncture, with a federal judge about to decide on a dismissal request. This follows a controversial move by President Trump, who appointed Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove to seek dismissal of the entire case. Adams has pleaded not guilty to serious charges including conspiracy, wire fraud, and soliciting illegal foreign campaign contributions from foreign nationals. The decision expected imminently could determine whether these federal charges against the New York City Mayor will proceed or be dropped altogether.
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CBS News
00:00 - 00:25
What is the focus of the current hearing in Eric Adams' criminal case?
The hearing centers on the judge's assessment of whether to dismiss the case against Mayor Eric Adams. Interestingly, both Adams and the Department of Justice are in agreement that the case should be dismissed. However, the DOJ requires the court's permission to drop the charges. During the hearing, the judge wants to hear arguments from both parties, particularly from the Justice Department, regarding the reasoning behind the dismissal request. The court must evaluate these arguments before making a final determination on whether to grant the dismissal in this unprecedented situation.
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00:27 - 01:03
What powers does Governor Kathy Hochul have regarding Mayor Eric Adams' political future amid his corruption scandal?
Governor Hochul possesses the extraordinary and unprecedented power to potentially remove Mayor Adams from office, a move that would mark the first such action in New York's 230-year history. She could also formally ask him to resign amid the corruption allegations he faces. This unusual gubernatorial authority is being carefully considered as Adams faces serious accusations of accepting illegal campaign contributions exceeding $100,000 while serving as Brooklyn borough president, along with allegations of accepting foreign national donations for his 2021 mayoral campaign. Despite the Justice Department's recommendation to drop the case, Hochul is deliberately weighing this significant decision while consulting with top political leaders.
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CBS News
14:23 - 16:01
What corruption allegations is New York City Mayor Eric Adams facing?
Mayor Eric Adams is accused of accepting over $100,000 in illegal campaign contributions in exchange for his influence while serving as Brooklyn borough president. He also allegedly accepted illegal donations from foreign nationals during his 2021 mayoral campaign. These serious allegations have prompted Governor Kathy Hochul to meet with political leaders to consider removing Adams from office. The situation has escalated to the point where both the public and several city officials have called for Adams to step down amid the growing corruption scandal.
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CBS News
14:23 - 14:58