On October 8, New York City’s First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright announced her resignation during an ongoing FBI investigation. This news comes just a day after her husband, Phil Banks, who also served as a deputy mayor, stepped down on October 7. The situation was further complicated by the recent arrest of former city official Mohamed Bahi, who is facing charges related to evidence destruction in connection with the federal inquiry.
In the wake of Wright’s resignation, Mayor Eric Adams swiftly appointed Maria Torres-Springer as the new First Deputy Mayor. Throughout this upheaval, Adams has been clear in stating that the resignations of Wright, Banks, and others—like Senior Advisor Chang—are unrelated to the federal investigation. He asserted that no one in his administration was involved in any illegal activities.
Despite the increasing pressure on his administration, Adams has expressed his resolve to finish his term and pursue re-election. He emphasized, “When the truth comes out, everyone will reevaluate the situation,” indicating his commitment to weathering the storm.
Wright’s resignation followed her husband’s, and it’s been reported that federal agents seized her communication devices prior to her decision. Sources close to the situation suggested she felt “pressured to leave” as the mayor responded to the escalating crisis.
On the same day as Wright’s announcement, U.S. Attorney Damian Williams publicly revealed an indictment against Mohamed Bahi, accusing him of obstructing the federal investigation into fundraising activities connected to Adams and of destroying evidence. Bahi has since been arrested.
Since Adams faced federal scrutiny in late September, his administration has seen several shake-ups. This includes the resignation of former Senior Assistant for Community Affairs Rana Abbasova, who opted to cooperate with prosecutors, resulting in her termination.
Maria Torres-Springer, the newly appointed First Deputy Mayor, brings over 20 years of public service experience, having led various city agencies and made significant contributions to housing and economic development initiatives in New York City.
Adams highlighted that the departures of Wright, Chang, and others are simply part of regular government operations and are not a fallout from the federal investigation. He remarked, “No one has told me they wanted to resign because of the investigation,” reiterating his consistent message that all staff must abide by the law and that he has never advocated for illegal behavior.
The wave of resignations continues, with other officials such as former Police Commissioner Edward Caban and Health Commissioner Ashwin Wasan currently under federal scrutiny as well.
