New York
What is Mayor Eric Adams saying in response to the corruption charges against him?
Mayor Eric Adams has categorically denied all corruption charges against him. He specifically states that he has not engaged in any quid pro quo with the government and has made no agreements with them. Adams emphasizes that his primary commitment remains to the city of New York and its residents. In his defense, Adams has also made a controversial statement comparing the situation to Nazi propaganda, suggesting that if people hear lies repeatedly, they will eventually believe them. This reference to Mein Kampf underscores his strong protest against all allegations, portraying them as falsehoods being weaponized against him.
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CBS News
02:10 - 02:41
What power does New York Governor Kathy Hochul have regarding Mayor Eric Adams amid corruption charges?
Governor Hochul has the legal authority to remove Mayor Adams from office, though this power has never been exercised in New York's 235-year history. There was one historical precedent when Franklin Roosevelt was preparing to remove Mayor Jimmy Walker on corruption charges, but Walker resigned before this could happen. This makes Hochul's potential intervention particularly significant as she considers her options in the current situation with Mayor Adams. The unprecedented nature of such a removal underscores the gravity of the corruption allegations facing the mayor.
Watch clip answer (00:30m)CBS News
01:22 - 01:52
What specific actions demonstrate Mayor Eric Adams prioritizing federal interests over New Yorkers' interests?
According to NYC Comptroller Brad Lander, Mayor Adams has shown favoritism toward federal interests in two key instances. First, when Elon Musk took $80 million from the city's bank account, Adams was notably absent in defending New Yorkers' financial interests, only acting after Lander threatened legal action himself. Secondly, despite previously promising to uphold city laws limiting collaboration with ICE, Adams has now reversed position by agreeing to open an ICE center on Rikers Island that would allow for the deportation of individuals not yet convicted of any crime. Lander argues these actions demonstrate Adams prioritizing Trump administration policies over the needs of the New Yorkers who elected him.
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MSNBC
06:41 - 07:32
Does the Governor of New York have the power to remove the Mayor of New York City?
Yes, the Governor of New York possesses this extraordinary power, though it has never been used in the state's 230-year history. Governor Hochul has been reluctant to use it, considering it potentially undemocratic since voters elected Adams. Initially, she preferred letting voters decide in the upcoming November election when Adams is up for reelection. However, she recently changed her position and is now actively considering removal, holding meetings with top Democratic leaders. Her decision may depend on the outcome of a pivotal federal hearing scheduled for the following day.
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CBS News
02:33 - 03:23
How does the Trump administration approach working with Mayor Eric Adams on immigration issues compared to the previous administration?
According to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, Mayor Eric Adams was not heard by the previous administration when speaking out against the border crisis affecting New York City. In contrast, the Trump administration is actively listening to Adams and collaborating with him to address illegal immigration. Leavitt emphasizes that President Trump is willing to work with anyone, including Democrats like Adams, to implement strong federal action that prioritizes law-abiding American citizens. She states that the administration's approach will end the challenges that affected New York's education system, transportation, and taxpayer resources under the previous administration.
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Fox News
09:06 - 10:42
What powers does New York Governor Kathy Hochul have regarding the potential removal of Mayor Eric Adams?
Under the New York Constitution, Governor Hochul has the legal right to remove Mayor Adams, though this would be unprecedented. While Franklin Roosevelt once attempted to remove a mayor due to corruption charges, that mayor ultimately resigned before removal proceedings were completed. This power has never been exercised to completion in New York's history. The city comptroller is also threatening to initiate separate proceedings, having asked Adams to provide a plan for how he can effectively govern given the current challenges, including ongoing protests and multiple resignations from his administration.
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CBS News
01:58 - 02:59