Rep. Dan Goldman Criticizes DOJ’s Dismissal of Bribery Case Against Mayor Eric Adams
The Controversial Dismissal of the Bribery Case
Rep. Dan Goldman (D-N.Y.) has strongly condemned the Justice Department’s decision to drop a criminal bribery case against New York City Mayor Eric Adams, highlighting concerns about the politicization of the DOJ. Goldman, appearing on MSNBC’s "Inside with Jen Psaki," described the dismissal as "outright extortion," suggesting it far exceeds the DOJ’s authority. He drew parallels to the 1973 Saturday Night Massacre, a notorious event during the Watergate scandal, underscoring the severity of this action.
Historical Context: The Saturday Night Massacre Analogy
Goldman’s reference to the Saturday Night Massacre is significant, as it evokes a period of political turmoil and misconduct. During this event, President Nixon’s order to fire Special Prosecutor Archibald Cox led to the resignation of Attorney General Elliot Richardson and Deputy Attorney General William Ruckelshaus. Similarly, the DOJ’s dismissal of the case against Adams has sparked resignations among officials, signaling deep concerns within the department about political interference.
DOJ’s Memo and Implications for Adams’ Campaign
Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove’s memo justified dropping the charges, citing interference with Adams’ reelection campaign and potential hindrance to President Trump’s immigration agenda. This decision raises questions about the DOJ’s independence, as it appears to prioritize political objectives over the legal process. Adams’ subsequent announcement to allow ICE agents on Rikers Island marks a departure from NYC’s sanctuary city policies, aligning him with Trump’s immigration policies and drawing criticism.
Adams’ Shift in Policy Aligns with Trump’s Agenda
Mayor Adams’ new stance on immigration policy, facilitating ICE operations in NYC, contrasts sharply with the city’s history as a sanctuary for immigrants. This shift has fueled speculation about Adams’ strategy to gain support from Trump’s base ahead of his reelection bid. The move has also triggered backlash from Democratic leaders, who view it as a betrayal of New York’s progressive values.
Calls for Resignation Amid Political Fallout
Leading New York Democrats have called for Adams’ resignation, citing his alignment with Trump’s policies and the ethical implications of the dismissed bribery case. This political fallout reflects broader tensions within the party, as Adams’ actions are seen as compromising the city’s commitment to immigration reform and social justice.
Goldman’s Stance on Adams’ Removal and DOJ’s Future
While critical of the DOJ’s decision, Goldman does not currently support Governor Kathy Hochul removing Adams from office. He hopes for a resolution through New York’s political leadership, indicating a preference for internal negotiations over direct intervention. Goldman emphasizes the need to address the politicization of the DOJ, viewing Bove’s actions as a dangerous precedent for future interference in legal matters.
Broader Implications for the Justice Department
Goldman’s concerns extend beyond the current case, highlighting the risks of political influence over the DOJ. He warns that such actions undermine the department’s credibility and the rule of law, urging immediate action to prevent further politicization. As the DOJ faces these challenges, the outcome of this situation could set significant precedents for future cases, impacting the balance of power in legal and political arenas.
