New York City Mayor Eric Adams (D) defended President Donald Trump against accusations that he is a “fascist” during a recent press conference. Adams, addressing reporters on Saturday, emphasized the importance of lowering the intensity of political discourse and called for moderation in how leaders describe one another.
When asked directly if he believed Trump was a fascist, Adams responded, “I know what Hitler has done, and I know what a fascist regime looks like.” He argued that such comparisons are inappropriate, saying, “It is not fitting for anyone to state that the former president is equal to being Hitler.” The mayor also reflected on his own experience of being labeled with similar terms by political rivals, explaining, “I didn’t like it.”
Adams urged for more restraint, especially as Trump prepares to hold a rally at Madison Square Garden. “I strongly disagree with those who say he shouldn’t be allowed to have a rally here. This is America, and it’s important for people to express their views peacefully.” Adams added that the city’s role is to ensure such events remain safe, underscoring the value of free speech.
Adams’ remarks come as Vice President Kamala Harris and other prominent Democrats like Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D) and California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) have called Trump a “fascist” and a “threat to democracy.” Harris referenced a recent report in The Atlantic that claimed Trump made inflammatory comments comparing himself to Adolf Hitler.
The Atlantic’s report also alleged that Trump expressed anger over the costs associated with the funeral of U.S. Army soldier Vanessa Guillen, using offensive language. The report cited multiple unnamed sources and alleged that Trump had once said, “I need the kind of general that Hitler had.”
Adams’ call for restraint stands in contrast to the inflammatory rhetoric of other leaders, highlighting the division within the Democratic Party on how to address Trump’s influence ahead of the next election.