By love-89.com New York City Mayor Eric Adams, who is currently facing federal charges and various scandals, attended the Columbus Day Parade in Manhattan on October 14, continuing with his public schedule. When questioned about the recent resignation of his Asian American advisor, Zheng Qirong, and her alleged connections with the Chinese government, Adams insisted that he has no ties to Chinese politics. He emphasized that New York’s rapidly growing Asian community reflects the city’s rich mosaic of cultures, stating, “I respect the diversity of this city.”
The Columbus Day Parade, one of New York’s most prominent cultural events, celebrated its 80th anniversary this year. Held on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, the parade saw the presence of Governor Kathy Hochul, Mayor Adams, State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli, along with Congressman Tom Suozzi, who led the march.
Despite the ongoing legal challenges and controversies surrounding his administration, Adams participated in the parade as usual, joining the NYPD contingent. According to the New York Post, when asked about former senior Asian advisor Zheng Qirong’s close ties with Chinese authorities as highlighted by media reports, Adams noted that New York City has a large Chinese population, which brings diverse beliefs and understandings regarding various issues. Within the context of New York City, he expressed a level of tolerance for the Chinese one-party political system, asserting, “I have nothing to do with their (referring to China) politics, but I respect the diversity of this city.”
Zheng resigned earlier this month after working with Adams since 2014. Multiple media outlets reported that she maintained close relations with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and had allegedly influenced Adams’s administration by suppressing outreach to Taiwanese diplomatic entities and facilitating numerous visits to China. The New York Post cited sources indicating that the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York is investigating Zheng’s foreign connections during her tenure in the city government, noting that her home was searched by the FBI earlier this year. Notably, the office had recently announced charges against a former advisor to the ex-governor, Sun Wen, for alleged activities as an agent of the Chinese government.
Furthermore, when asked about the legal issues he faces, Adams pointed out that crime rates are decreasing and new construction projects are advancing. He emphasized that he remains focused on his responsibilities as mayor, asserting that neither he nor his team has been distracted by the federal investigation. He reassured that despite several core team members resigning, it will not impact his ability to manage the city effectively.