Mayor Eric Adams Defends Trump, Urges Political Leaders To Avoid ‘Fascist’ Label

New York City Mayor Eric Adams (D) defended President Donald Trump from accusations of being a “fascist” during a press conference on Saturday. Adams called for a reduction in heated political language, stating that such rhetoric is harmful and unproductive.

When asked if he thought Trump was a fascist, Adams responded, “My answer is no. I know what Hitler has done, and I know what a fascist regime looks like.” Adams emphasized that using these terms inaccurately only worsens the political climate. “I’ve had those terms used against me,” he noted, “and I didn’t like it.”

Adams urged that the nation should lower the intensity of its discussions, especially ahead of Trump’s upcoming rally at Madison Square Garden. “This is America, and New York should be a place where people can peacefully express their views,” he said. Adams stressed that his administration’s duty is to ensure that such events remain safe.

His statements come amid recent criticism from Vice President Kamala Harris and other prominent Democrats. Harris cited a report from The Atlantic alleging that Trump once made comments comparing himself to Hitler’s generals. Other Democrats, including California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D), have labeled Trump a “fascist” and a “threat to democracy.”

The Atlantic report also claimed that Trump became angry over the costs of Vanessa Guillen’s funeral, a U.S. soldier who was murdered in 2020. According to anonymous sources, Trump allegedly made disparaging remarks about the expense, further fueling Democratic leaders’ criticism.

Adams’ defense of Trump contrasts with other Democrats’ aggressive stance, as he pushes for a more civil approach. He urged leaders to be cautious with their language, noting that the political environment today will shape how the country moves forward post-election.