Outgoing New York City Mayor Eric Adams accused the Biden administration’s Justice Department of using “lawfare” against political opponents, drawing parallels to the treatment of former President Donald Trump.
Outgoing New York City Mayor Eric Adams has leveled serious accusations against the Biden administration’s Justice Department, claiming it has engaged in “lawfare” against political opponents, including himself and former President Donald Trump. During a recent appearance on Fox News’ “The Story,” Adams expressed his concerns regarding the treatment of individuals facing legal challenges under the current administration.
“I think what we have witnessed under President Biden’s Justice Department, Americans should never have to live through that again,” Adams stated. He referenced various incidents, including the scrutiny faced by everyday Americans advocating for their children’s education and the high-profile raid on Trump’s residence. “Debates should have happened… I think that you’re seeing the clear indication that the Justice Department under the previous administration used lawfare to go after those who disagree with them,” he added.
When asked if he felt angered by the alleged weaponization of the DOJ prior to being targeted himself, Adams responded, “Personal experience allows us to see firsthand the abuse.” He emphasized his long-standing commitment to fighting injustices, drawing from his extensive background as a police officer, state senator, and borough president. “There’s a real history, a rich history, of me standing up and fighting what the criminal justice system should never be,” he remarked.
Adams acknowledged that his anger regarding the situation predates his own legal troubles, but he noted that witnessing the events unfold during his tenure as mayor was particularly distressing. “What I saw happen while I was the mayor is really deplorable, and we saw what happened to President Trump’s family as well,” he said.
In September 2024, Adams was indicted on federal corruption charges, which included allegations of bribery, wire fraud, and accepting illegal foreign campaign contributions from Turkish officials and businessmen. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges and maintains that the case against him is politically motivated, stemming from his criticisms of the Biden administration’s handling of illegal immigration.
However, prosecutors in the Southern District of New York have stated in court filings that the investigation into Adams began in September 2021, prior to his public criticisms of the government’s immigration policies and his election as mayor. Earlier this year, the charges against Adams were dropped at the request of the Trump administration.
As Adams prepares to leave office at the end of the year, he will be succeeded by Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, who is set to be sworn in shortly after the new year.
According to Fox News, Adams’ comments reflect a broader concern among some political figures regarding the perceived misuse of legal mechanisms for political purposes.