Former President Trump claimed he had predicted that New York City Mayor Eric Adams would face an indictment within a year and stressed the need for an honest Justice Department.
Trump addressed reporters inside Trump Tower in New York City on Thursday afternoon, answering questions on various topics including the Ukraine conflict, Iran, and Adams’ recent indictment. A Manhattan grand jury indicted Adams on Wednesday on federal criminal charges following a campaign corruption investigation.
When asked if Adams would receive a fair trial, Trump expressed uncertainty. Trump admitted he did not know Adams well, although he acknowledged that Adams had been generous in his statements toward him. Trump labelled Bill de Blasio, Adams’ predecessor, as “the worst mayor ever.”
🚨 TRUMP: “I saw Eric Adams (NYC Mayor) speaking about illegal migrants hurting our city. I said ‘Watch, he’ll be indicted within a year.’ I was exactly right.”pic.twitter.com/2F6x27p1WR
— Autism Capital 🧩 (@AutismCapital) September 26, 2024
“I remember Adams discussing how illegal migrants were harming our city and that the federal government should compensate us. I thought, ‘He’ll be indicted within a year,’ and I was right,” Trump stated. “We see unprecedented use of the Justice Department and FBI,” he added, wishing Adams luck.
Trump admitted he was unaware of the specifics behind Adams’ indictment, but a group with him affirmed his prediction. On Wednesday, Adams faced charges including conspiracy to receive campaign contributions from foreign nationals, wire fraud, soliciting contributions from foreign nationals, and accepting bribes.
Trump also discussed the immigration issue that Adams criticised, urging federal officials to fund New York City to manage it. “He said it was unfair for us to bear this burden. We shouldn’t handle this alone. This is New York City,” Trump remarked.
Trump, a former city resident, noted that parks were crowded and mentioned how the Roosevelt Hotel had become unrecognisable. “[Adams] strongly opposed it. He was right because it’s damaging our country,” Trump said. “I predicted his indictment within a year, and that’s what happened.”
Trump linked Adams’ indictment to his own, highlighting how both indictments occurred before the statute of limitations expired. “These are dirty players. They cheat and do anything necessary. We need an honest Justice Department and FBI quickly,” Trump asserted.
The FBI has reportedly examined whether Adams’ 2021 mayoral campaign collaborated with the Turkish government and other entities for fundraising. Some New York officials are also under scrutiny for potential contacts with China.
The alleged fraud brought in more public funds for Adams’ campaign under a program that matches small-dollar donations with taxpayer-supported grants of up to $2,000, as per the indictment. A $250 individual donation could yield up to $2,000 in matching funds. Adams allegedly received $10 million from this program.
Additionally, Adams purportedly received perks such as free flights on Turkish Airlines, hotel stays, and high-end meals. In one instance, he inquired about flying to Chile’s Easter Island on a Turkish jet, but it was not possible due to the lack of a connecting route from New York to the destination.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Newsweek reports on Eric Adams’ indictment, with Trump supporters labeling it “lawfare,” emphasizing Adams’ outspoken stance on the migrant crisis and potential political targeting.(read more)
- AOL reports Trump claiming he predicted New York Mayor Eric Adams’ indictment due to comments on migrants, labeling Adams’ party as “dirty players” and “bad people.”(read more)
- Newsweek examines how Mayor Eric Adams’ indictment mirrors Donald Trump’s responses, both criticizing federal investigations and maintaining innocence despite corruption charges.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Did Trump predict Mayor Eric Adams would be indicted?
Yes, Trump said he predicted Adams would be indicted within a year.
What charges was Mayor Eric Adams indicted on?
Adams was indicted on conspiracy, wire fraud, bribery, and soliciting campaign contributions from foreign nationals.
Does Trump believe Adams will get a fair trial?
Trump said he did not know if Adams would get a fair trial.
What did Trump say about immigration in New York City?
Trump said illegal migrants are hurting the city and the federal government should pay New York City to handle it.
What perks did Mayor Adams allegedly receive according to the indictment?
Adams allegedly received free flights, hotel stays, high-end meals, and $10 million in matching funds.
