New York City Mayor Eric Adams pleaded not guilty in federal court in Manhattan on Friday in response to criminal charges of receiving illegal campaign contributions and gifts of undisclosed luxury travel while allegedly doing favors for Turkey's government and Turkish businesspeople. The indictment, unsealed on Thursday, includes charges of conspiracy, bribery, wire fraud, and soliciting campaign contributions by foreign nationals.
During his arraignment, Mayor Adams waived a public reading of the indictment and stated his plea of not guilty to Magistrate Judge Katharine Parker. As part of an agreement with prosecutors, Adams will remain free on his promise to return to court for all proceedings without having to post bail. Judge Parker also ordered that he have no contact with any individuals listed in the government's evidence.
Adams' lawyer, Alex Spiro, indicated that they would be filing a motion to dismiss the charges during the next court appearance, scheduled for the following Wednesday. Spiro also expressed a desire for a speedy trial in the case.
The mayor, who was already facing challenges in the upcoming Democratic mayoral primary, has vowed to fight the charges despite increasing calls for his resignation from fellow New York politicians. Governor Kathy Hochul, a fellow Democrat, is reportedly considering invoking a provision of the city's charter to potentially remove Adams from office.