Mayor Eric Adams Accuses Biden DOJ of ‘Lawfare’ Against Political Opponents
NEW YORK, N.Y. — New York City Mayor Eric Adams publicly accused the Biden administration’s Department of Justice (DOJ) of engaging in “lawfare” — the use of legal systems to target political adversaries — citing his own federal indictment as well as investigations into former President Donald Trump. Speaking on Fox News’ “The Story” on December 30, Adams described the Justice Department’s tactics as a troubling weaponization of government power that threatens the fabric of American democracy.
Adams, who was indicted in September 2024 on federal corruption charges including bribery, wire fraud, and accepting illegal foreign campaign contributions, has consistently maintained his innocence and called the case politically motivated. He pleaded not guilty to all charges. The mayor’s indictment was dismissed with prejudice earlier this year, but Adams said his experience gave him a firsthand perspective on what he characterized as DOJ overreach.
“I think what we have witnessed under President Biden’s Justice Department, Americans should never have to live through that again,” Adams said. He referenced the DOJ’s investigations into Trump, including the high-profile search of the former president’s residence over classified documents, as part of a broader pattern of targeting political opponents. “You saw everyday Americans who fought for the education of their children being put on watch lists. You saw what happened with Charlie Kirk, when you saw the raiding of President Trump’s home. Debates should have happened,” Adams added.
Adams’ remarks echo concerns raised by some Republicans and conservative commentators about the impartiality of federal investigations into political figures. The DOJ, under Attorney General Merrick Garland, has faced scrutiny over its handling of cases involving Trump and his associates, with critics alleging selective prosecution. However, the department has maintained that its investigations adhere to the rule of law and are based on evidence, not politics.
Adams also reflected on his long career in law enforcement and public service, emphasizing his commitment to criminal justice reform and his personal history with the justice system. “I spent my entire life, not only as a police officer but as a state senator and borough president fighting against injustices,” he said. “There’s a real history, a rich history, of me standing up and fighting what the criminal justice system should never be.”
His indictment came amid a politically charged atmosphere in New York City and nationally, with federal prosecutors investigating allegations of corruption involving foreign campaign contributions from Turkish officials and businessmen. Adams has argued that the charges were part of a politically motivated effort to undermine his administration.
The mayor’s comments come as the DOJ continues to face intense public and political scrutiny over its prosecutorial decisions. The department’s website outlines its commitment to impartial justice and adherence to federal laws, but critics on both sides of the aisle remain skeptical.
For more information on federal prosecution guidelines, see the Department of Justice official site. Details on the federal indictment process can be found at the U.S. Courts website. For background on political investigations and legal standards, the Federal Bureau of Investigation provides resources on its investigative procedures. Additionally, the U.S. Congress maintains records of oversight hearings related to DOJ activities.
As the nation approaches the 2026 midterm elections, the debate over the Justice Department’s role in politically sensitive investigations remains a contentious issue, with Mayor Adams’ outspoken criticism adding fuel to the ongoing conversation about the balance between law enforcement and political influence.
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