Indictments overshadow Adams (but everything's fine); This Week in New York History

And a roundup of recent campaign television ads in N.Y.'s most competitive districts.

Good afternoon — it’s Monday and World Barber Day.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2024

TODAY’S CAPCON:

• New York City Mayor Eric Adams tried to tout his administration’s progress on key issues while two former FDNY officials were indicted down the street.

• This Week in New York History: America’s first spy, pantaloons, and the Great Fire of New York

• New Bills of Note: eviction proceedings, school choice, and lawful assemblies.

• Campaign Corner: Three Republican candidates for state Senate get a boost and I collected the latest campaign ads for you to watch.

🍂 Tonight’s Weather: Albany: Partly cloudy, low 50s. New York City: Mostly cloudy, low 60s. (National Weather Service)

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U.S. Attorney Damian Williams (Stefan Jeremiah/Associated Press)

🚪 Adams touts progress while feds indict two former FDNY officials

🗣️ At least one member of the New York City Council has now called for Adams’ resignation but the mayor’s been unfazed. 

Things are going really, really well for New York City Mayor Eric ADAMS — or at least that’s what he told reporters Monday while unveiling an annual report on his administration’s work.

“You hear me talk about it over and over again,” Adams said. “Our record job numbers and falling crime, they have become a trademark of this administration.” 

“The era of employment and safety is something we want to be remembered for,” he said.

While he was announcing what he saw as good news, federal prosecutors were doling out some bad news at the very same time.

Two former high-ranking officials within the New York City Fire Department were indicted Monday for allegedly taking bribes to speed up building inspections.

• Prosecutors alleged the pair worked with another former firefighter who promised building owners an expedited review of safety standards.

• That former firefighter claimed to be running a legitimate business. He took the money from customers and then paid the two now-indicted officials.

Both men could face decades in prison if convicted on those charges.

On top of that, Adams’ chief counsel, Lisa Zornberg, resigned over the weekend. 

Some reports have claimed that happened because the mayor wouldn’t take her advice to fire people in his administration while multiple federal investigations are ensnaring members of his inner circle.

But it’s fine. You know that meme with the dog at the table with coffee while the room is on fire? It’s like that.

(Meme created by artist K.C. Green)

🥵 Adams says he’s not sweating it.