New York City Mayor Eric Adams met with President-elect Donald Trump on Friday to discuss manufacturing jobs, the Gaza ceasefire, and the federal government’s role in supporting the city. Adams, however, emphasized that his federal bribery case was not a topic of conversation.
“We had a productive conversation about New York’s needs, what’s best for our city, and how the federal government can help improve the lives of New Yorkers,” Adams said in a statement released Friday evening following the meeting in Florida. “To be clear, we did not discuss my legal case.”
The visit has drawn criticism from some of Adams’ Democratic mayoral primary challengers, who accused him of seeking Trump’s favor for a potential presidential pardon.
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Adams pushed back against these claims, stating, “Those who suggest the mayor of the largest city in the nation shouldn’t meet with the incoming president to discuss our city’s priorities—because of inaccurate speculation or partisan differences—clearly care more about politics than people.”
Adams was indicted in September on charges of accepting luxury travel perks and illegal campaign contributions from foreign nationals in exchange for political favors, including assisting Turkish diplomats with fire safety inspections in Manhattan. He has pleaded not guilty and is scheduled for trial in April.
Trump, who previously criticized the case against Adams, indicated in December that he was open to considering a pardon.
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During Friday’s visit, Adams crossed paths with actor Sylvester Stallone and shared his admiration for the Rocky film series. A brief video of their exchange was posted to X by a New York Times reporter.
When asked whether he discussed the controversial $9 toll for drivers entering Manhattan—a policy Trump has vowed to block—Adams said he would provide more details at a later time.
The meeting has added fuel to political debates, with critics questioning Adams’ motives and supporters emphasizing the importance of dialogue between city and federal leaders, regardless of party lines.
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