In a spirited in-person media availability at City Hall, Mayor Eric Adams returned to the public eye following his recovery from COVID-19.

Joined by his senior leadership team, the Mayor emphasized his administration’s commitment to public safety and affordability in New York City, while also addressing pressing concerns about ongoing federal investigations involving members of his administration.

Deputy Mayor for Communications Fabien Levy opened the session, expressing gratitude for the media’s attendance.

“Our administration is working hard every day to keep New Yorkers safe and create a more affordable city,” he stated.

Mayor Adams took the podium, praising recent initiatives in the public school system and highlighting significant decreases in crime rates. “Public safety is the prerequisite to prosperity,” he said, citing a 30% decrease in shootings and nearly 30% in homicides for the fiscal year. “You cannot hide the bodies, so you can’t fudge those numbers. And clearly, we’re moving in the right direction with law enforcement.”

He continued by celebrating the administration’s efforts in expanding housing, reducing unemployment, and increasing the availability of protected bike lanes. “We installed nearly 30% more protected bike lanes… you wouldn’t believe that when you hear some of the narrative that this administration has not been focused,” he noted, crediting the Department of Transportation for their achievements.

On the topic of affordability, Mayor Adams highlighted the increase in families signing up for subsidized childcare, stating, “It’s a real hallmark of this administration. We want to continue to provide for that middle class.”

However, the Mayor faced pointed questions regarding the ongoing federal investigations and the implications for his administration. When asked about the recent subway shooting incident and the use of force by police, he defended the actions taken by law enforcement. “Those officers took great strides… This was a bad guy,” he emphasized, referring to the individual involved in the incident.

Adams reiterated his focus on the people of New York, stating, “I have a city to run. People want mopeds off their streets, their children educated, they want to be in a safe city.” He expressed frustration over repeated inquiries about investigations, asserting, “You know what, I’m doing a darn good job in doing it.”

In response to concerns raised about the culture of corruption within city government following the indictment of former fire chiefs, Mayor Adams emphasized the integrity of the majority of city employees. “We have over 300,000 city employees. They get up every day. They do the right thing every day,” he stated.

The Mayor also addressed questions regarding the loyalty to his staff amidst the investigations. “I don’t go into private conversations,” he said, when asked if he had requested resignations from anyone facing scrutiny. “I’m extremely private. When I have a conversation with you, you can feel comfortable in speaking because you’re not going to hear it again.”

As the press conference continued, Mayor Adams reflected on the importance of voter registration and the need for inclusivity among immigrant communities. “I think it’s imperative that those who can register to vote do so and exercise your right to vote,” he added.

The session concluded with the Mayor affirming his commitment to addressing the pressing concerns of New Yorkers. “This is a hard-working team that’s committed to the people of this city,” he said, as he opened the floor to further questions.

In summary, Mayor Adams reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to public safety, affordability, and the well-being of New Yorkers, despite the backdrop of ongoing investigations that continue to challenge his leadership.