NEW YORK — Federal prosecutors have escalated their investigation into New York City Mayor Eric Adams’ 2021 campaign by issuing subpoenas. This new development raises significant questions surrounding the mayor’s leadership amid an ongoing probe.
City Hall confirmed on Thursday that the administration received a subpoena in July. The attorneys representing the Democratic mayor stated they are “in the process of responding” to the subpoenas and emphasized that they have not found any evidence of illegal conduct by the mayor.
The subpoenas, which have recently come to light, are part of an investigation that initially gained public attention last November when federal agents seized Adams’ phones and electronic tablet and conducted a raid at the home of a key fundraiser. The timing of these subpoenas coincides with Adams’ upcoming attendance at the Democratic National Convention next week.
While federal prosecutors have remained tight-lipped about the investigation, reports indicate they are examining whether the Adams campaign colluded with the Turkish government to receive donations from foreign sources, possibly funneled through straw donors. Additionally, there is interest in Adams’ use of New York City’s matching funds program, which offers candidates an eightfold match for donations from city residents.
In a recent interview, Adams confirmed his administration’s commitment to cooperating fully with the federal investigation. “When you see the subpoena, you respond. We are going to cooperate fully with all the reviews that are taking place,” he stated, expressing confidence that the inquiry would ultimately demonstrate no criminal activity on his part.
The mayor has claimed he had “no knowledge, direct or otherwise, of any improper fundraising activity.” However, the details surrounding the subpoenas have not been disclosed, including the specific information being sought. Reports indicate that these grand jury subpoenas are pursuing text messages, communications, and documents related to fundraising and travel involving Adams and others.
Additionally, the investigation is examining potential misconduct from Adams when he held a different city office, specifically concerning efforts to assist the Turkish government in obtaining approval for a Manhattan building designated for diplomatic use in 2021, despite fire safety concerns.
At that time, Adams was Brooklyn’s borough president, a role associated with limited power over city government but he was the Democratic nominee for mayor and considered a likely winner. He stated that he contacted the former fire commissioner simply to gather information and did not exert any authority over the official.
There has been no comment from the former fire commissioner or the Turkish consulate regarding the investigation.
