New York City Mayor Eric Adams Loses Another Top Aide Amid Federal Probe

Another Top Aide Resigns as Mayor Adams Faces Mounting Pressure

New York City Mayor Eric Adams is facing increasing scrutiny as his administration continues to be rocked by resignations amid an ongoing federal investigation.

The latest to depart is Philip Banks, Adams' deputy mayor for public safety and a longtime friend. Banks announced his resignation on Monday, citing the need to transition to other pursuits and avoid being a distraction to the city's work.

Banks' resignation follows a string of departures from the administration, including the NYPD's commissioner, Edward Caban, and one of Adams' closest aides, Timothy Pearson. Their phones were seized by federal investigators, who are also looking into the operations of a consulting firm run by Terence Banks, Philip's brother.

A History of Scandal

The federal investigation focuses on allegations that Adams accepted illegal campaign contributions and bribes from foreign nationals. Adams has denied any wrongdoing and pleaded not guilty to the charges. However, the mounting pressure from the investigation, including calls to resign from Governor Kathy Hochul, has led to a tumultuous few weeks for the mayor.

Banks himself has a history of controversy, having resigned abruptly from his position as the NYPD's highest-ranking uniformed member in 2014 after becoming entangled in a corruption scandal. He was named an unindicted co-conspirator in that case, but was never charged with a crime.

Despite this past, Adams appointed Banks to his current position in 2022, giving him significant influence over the city's police and fire departments. Now, as Adams continues to navigate the ongoing federal investigation, the future of his administration remains uncertain.