Embattled New York City Mayor Eric Adams, indicted on federal corruption charges, announced plans to visit Mar-a-Lago to meet with incoming President Donald Trump, claiming the trip is intended to foster a partnership with the new administration. However, social media erupted with skepticism Thursday, with critics suggesting the visit may be a bid for a presidential pardon.
Fabien Levy, Adams’ spokesperson, told The New York Times via email that the mayor’s meeting with Trump is scheduled for Thursday evening. “Mayor Adams has made quite clear his willingness to work with President-elect Trump and his incoming administration on behalf of New Yorkers — and that partnership with the federal government is critical to New York City’s success,” Levy said.
Yet, the timing and intent of the meeting have drawn criticism from Democrats and social media commentators, many of whom see the trip as self-serving. Adams has been charged in a federal investigation involving bribery, wire fraud, and illegal campaign contributions from foreign nationals.
Prosecutors allege he accepted over $100,000 in luxury travel perks, including lavish hotel stays and flight upgrades, from Turkish nationals and a government representative. He is also accused of pressuring the New York City Fire Department to approve a high-rise building for the Turkish Consulate General despite safety concerns.
On social media platforms, cynics were quick to question Adams’ motives. “It’s such a relief to know that the mayor is spending every waking moment looking out for the people of New York,” wrote Noah Shachtman, contributing writer at Rolling Stone and Wired, on Bluesky. He added sarcastically, “And thank God that Trump and his team aren’t laughing at Eric Adams for being so ‘thirsty’ for a pardon.”
Others echoed this sentiment. “NYC coulda had Maya Wiley…” lamented Wajahat Ali, co-host of The Democracy-Ish Podcast. Artist Candee Corliss speculated, “Eric Adams is heading to Mar-a-Lago to meet with Donald Trump? He’s begging for a pardon, isn’t he? SMH.”
Democratic strategist David Axelrod summed up the widespread sentiment with a pointed one-word query: “Pardon?” The backlash underscores the growing frustration among Adams’ critics, who view his actions as prioritizing personal interests over those of New York City. Whether the meeting will yield meaningful collaboration or further fuel controversy remains to be seen.