New York City Mayor Eric Adams defended his cooperation with the Trump administration on immigration policy and dismissed criticism from fellow Democrats, insisting he would "talk to who I want" in order to secure resources for the city. His remarks came amid controversy over reports that New York may work with the White House to implement an online registry for undocumented migrants.
At a Black History Month event at Gracie Mansion on Tuesday night, Adams pushed back against calls for his resignation, rejecting claims that his coordination with the Trump administration amounted to a political deal. "There's a level of buffoonery that's going on, that's spreading as fast as COVID. 'Well, well, you shouldn't be talking to the president,'" Adams said. "I'm the mayor of the biggest city in America. I will talk to who I want to, to bring services to your city."
The mayor reiterated his stance in an interview on FOX5's Good Day New York Wednesday morning, saying he was "happy" that the Trump administration was taking a tougher stance on illegal immigration. Adams also indicated that New York City would work to ensure compliance with the White House's proposed migrant registry, which would require undocumented individuals to provide personal information-including names, fingerprints, and addresses-or face legal consequences.
"The new order that came down, the corporation counsel will look at it and make sure we are in compliance with both federal and city law," Adams said. He emphasized that while the city's sanctuary laws prevent cooperation with federal civil immigration enforcement, he is permitted under city law to collaborate on criminal matters. "That is what I've been calling for for two years, and I'm happy there's an administration that heard me and they're really willing to collaborate."
Adams' remarks came as his administration announced the closure of the Roosevelt Hotel migrant intake center, which had served as a key processing hub for newly arrived migrants. The move follows a sharp decline in new arrivals, according to City Hall. However, critics questioned the decision to open another large shelter in the Bronx, where local officials and residents have raised concerns about the city's handling of the crisis.
Adams also addressed speculation about his political future, responding to critics who have suggested he should step aside ahead of his reelection bid. "What we have done, you have to be stupid to try to stop me from running this race," Adams said. Listing his administration's accomplishments, he added, "This is a biblical moment. When Jesus was on the cross, he said, 'God forgive them, for they know not what they do.' All these Negroes who were asking me to step down, God forgive them."
Pressed about his use of the term "Negroes" during his FOX5 interview, Adams insisted that he was not implying Black voters should support him unconditionally. "I'm asking for all New Yorkers to support me," he said. When asked to clarify who he was referring to, Adams responded, "Who has asked me to step down?"
Adams' approval ratings have dropped, with a recent poll showing him at just 10% support among Democrats, trailing former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who has not yet announced a campaign. Asked about the numbers, Adams dismissed concerns, pointing to his 2021 mayoral victory when he overcame an early polling deficit. "People stated that he [Andrew Yang] was going to be the next mayor. We're not calling the mayor Andrew Yang. We're calling the mayor Mayor Adams," he said.
The mayor also addressed ongoing legal challenges, as his attorney, Alex Spiro, argued for the dismissal of the federal corruption case against him. Spiro has pointed to leaked letters from prosecutors, including one from Assistant U.S. Attorney Danielle Sassoon, as evidence of a biased investigation. "I have a great deal of confidence in my legal team," Adams said, reiterating his claim that the Department of Justice had been "weaponized" against him.
Amid the turmoil in his administration, four deputy mayors have announced their resignations, prompting questions about stability at City Hall. Adams insisted the administration remains functional. "Look at our results. They said the same thing when the indictment came down and what happened after that. We passed City of Yes. Crime continues to decrease in the city," he said. He added that new deputy mayors would be announced in the coming days.
The mayor also addressed concerns about congestion pricing, acknowledging that while traffic had decreased, business owners have complained of reduced foot traffic. "The data is still being processed," Adams said. He noted that Deputy Mayor Meera Joshi, who has overseen the initiative, is among those resigning but would ensure a smooth transition.
