Embattled Mayor Eric Adams refused Monday to speak out against the Trump administration’s proposed tariffs in his latest break with Democrats – instead turning questions about local impacts toward border security.
Adams’s statements on announced tariffs on Mexico and Canada come days after Hizzoner’s attorneys met with US Department of Justice officials as they try to get prosecutors to drop federal corruption charges against him.
“We cannot have porous borders, we have to make sure that our borders are secure, it’s a public safety issue,” Adams said during an unrelated press briefing on Monday kick starting “Jobs Week” in the city.
“We’re the top target for terrorist threats, we’re the top targets for destinations people want to go to in New York, and we have to make sure every aspect of keeping New Yorkers safe.”
President Trump ordered a 25% levy on imports from Mexico and Canada and 10% across-the-board on China, saying the countries weren’t doing enough to shore up border security and stop the flow of illegal fentanyl into the US.
But Mexico President Claudia Sheinbaum announced Monday the tariff on Mexcian goods was paused for one month in a deal with Trump while Trudeau was also reportedly looking to hash out an agreement.
Adams said his budget director Jacques Jiha was conducting an analysis of any potential impact the city could face, but didn’t elaborate.
“We need to find the right balance, and I think that we’re two weeks, three weeks into this administration, they have to find the right balance,” Adams added.
The diplomatic take on tariffs stands in stark contrast to other Democratic politicians, including Empire State Gov. Kathy Hochul — who slammed the plan because it would likely mean price hikes for local businesses and consumers.
Adams had criticized former President Joe Biden’s administration over its handling of the border, with an influx of migrants reaching crisis levels in five boroughs. He later called the charges against him retaliation for his criticisms.
Adams met with Trump on his West Palm Beach golf course and attended the president’s inauguration, though he denied his case came up in their talks.
Before taking office, Trump said he would consider pardoning the mayor, contending the mayor has been “treated pretty unfairly.”
