In a surprising statement, New York City Mayor Eric Adams defended former President Donald Trump this past weekend, pushing back against recent Democratic rhetoric labeling Trump a “fascist” and comparing him to Adolf Hitler. The comments come as tensions continue to rise in the days leading up to Trump’s rally at Madison Square Garden and amidst increased criticism from Democratic figures, including presidential nominee Kamala Harris.
At a Friday press conference, Mayor Adams spoke out against the comparisons, urging both sides to moderate their language. “I have had those comments hurled at me by some political leaders in the city; my answer is ‘No,’” he said. “I know what Hitler has done, and I know what a fascist regime looks like. I think we can all dial down the temperature,” Adams added, speaking as a moderate Democrat who has frequently called for a more civil political discourse. The mayor, himself under investigation for federal corruption, emphasized the importance of maintaining free expression while ensuring the rally’s security.
This isn’t the first time Trump has faced comparisons to fascist regimes. Harris and other Democrats renewed these accusations following recent claims from retired Marine Corps General John Kelly, who previously served as Trump’s White House Chief of Staff. Kelly alleged in a recent interview with The Atlantic that Trump had once expressed admiration for Hitler, supposedly commenting that “Hitler did some good things” by helping to rebuild Germany’s economy. Harris has since amplified these remarks, asserting Trump’s alleged authoritarian leanings and doubling down on claims that he poses a danger to democracy.
Trump, however, has categorically denied any such statements, condemning The Atlantic as a “failing magazine” and accusing his former aides of fabricating stories for political purposes. Adams took a different approach, asserting that, regardless of allegations, political rhetoric should not prevent individuals from expressing their views. “This is America. This is New York,” Adams stated. “It’s important that we allow individuals to exercise their right to get their message clear to New Yorkers.”
Security at Trump’s rally is expected to be significant, with NYPD deploying a large contingent around Madison Square Garden. Chief of Patrol John Chell announced the plans: “You will see a … heavy uniform presence around The Garden,” including specialized teams and counter-terrorism units. “We prepare for protests every day. We will have a very safe day tomorrow for all New Yorkers.”
Meanwhile, GOP leaders House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell recently sent a letter to Vice President Harris, urging her to tone down her rhetoric and warning that her statements could inspire political violence. Harris has not directly responded to the letter but continues to emphasize her belief that Trump poses a “danger and a threat” to the country, a sentiment she reiterated to reporters on Saturday. “The American people deserve to be presented with facts and the truth,” she said, referencing General Kelly and other former officials who have expressed concerns about Trump.
Adams’ call for more moderated language offers a rare moment of bipartisanship amidst an increasingly polarized climate, underscoring his belief that political discourse should be focused on issues rather than inflammatory accusations. As Election Day approaches, the challenge for leaders on both sides will be navigating these sensitive topics without adding fuel to an already heated national discourse.