Eric Adams faces campaign funding crisis after federal indictment

In October 2024, Eric Adams, the mayor of New York City, faced a severe decline in campaign donations following a federal indictment that included five counts of bribery, fraud, and soliciting illegal foreign campaign contributions. The indictment was unsealed in September, leading to a dramatic drop in financial support for his re-election campaign. During the filing period from July 12 to October 7, Adams reported approximately $146,000 in donations, but only $250 was contributed after the indictment was made public. This amount came from a single unemployed donor on the day the indictment was announced. The financial downturn is particularly striking when compared to the fundraising efforts of other candidates. For instance, city comptroller Brad Lander raised over $315,000 during the same period, while former city comptroller Scott M. Stringer and state senator Zellnor Myrie also reported significantly higher contributions than Adams. This stark contrast underscores the challenges Adams faces as he seeks re-election amid legal scrutiny. The implications of this fundraising collapse are profound, as it not only reflects the immediate impact of legal issues on political campaigns but also raises questions about Adams' ability to mount a competitive campaign moving forward. The loss of donor confidence could hinder his outreach efforts and overall campaign strategy. As the election approaches, the fallout from the indictment may continue to affect Adams' political standing and fundraising capabilities, potentially reshaping the dynamics of the mayoral race in New York City.