Podcast Summary: Andrew Schulz's Flagrant with Akaash Singh – "NYC Mayor on Deep State Hit Job, Trump Relationship & Epstein Files"

Release Date: April 2, 2025

In this pivotal episode of Andrew Schulz's Flagrant with Akaash Singh, hosts Andrew Schulz and Akaash Singh engage in a candid and unfiltered conversation with Eric Adams, the Mayor of New York City. The discussion delves deep into pressing issues such as government bureaucracy, the migrant crisis, public safety, mental health, and the intricate relationships between local and federal administrations. Below is a comprehensive summary capturing the essence of their dialogue, enriched with notable quotes and timestamps for reference.

1. The Concept of a "Deep State" and Permanent Government

Eric Adams opens the conversation by addressing the notion of a "deep state," asserting its existence and influence over political positions:

• Eric Adams [00:44]: "It is, it's not used too much. It's real. Permanent government is real. And whoever's trying to act like it's not real, they're lying."

He emphasizes that while presidents and governors may change, certain bureaucratic elements remain constant, shaping policies irrespective of elected officials.

2. Migrant Crisis in New York City

A significant portion of the discussion centers around the migrant crisis and its financial and social implications for NYC.

• Andrew Schulz [00:12]: "So tell us what happened with the migrant crisis."

• Eric Adams [00:14]: "This cost us $7 billion. This was the tipping point where I decided I gotta publicly criticize the Biden administration."

Adams explains the substantial economic burden migrants have placed on the city, leading him to vocally oppose federal policies. He criticizes the administration's handling of border security, attributing the influx to failures in securing national borders.

3. Justice Department Investigation and Epstein Files

The conversation takes a contentious turn as Andrew Schulz probes into potential investigations surrounding Eric Adams, hinting at connections to Turkish Airlines and the notorious Jeffrey Epstein case.

• Andrew Schulz [00:35]: "Justice Department looks into Eric Adams... Epstein Files. Do you think there's any connection to those two things you're doing?"

• Eric Adams [46:49]: "The timing of it. The leaking...they're trying to send a message."

Adams suggests that the Justice Department's actions are retaliatory, targeting him due to his criticisms of federal policies. He references leaked text messages and indictments, portraying them as politically motivated attacks orchestrated by entrenched government elements.

4. Public Safety and Subway Security

Addressing public safety, Mayor Adams highlights the improvements in crime rates and the proactive measures taken to enhance subway security.

• Eric Adams [15:08]: "We're protecting the people. I'm in charge of the police system. We've put a thousand more cops in the system."

• Eric Adams [19:10]: "We have record decrease in crime, but that means nothing if people don't feel safe."

Adams acknowledges the discrepancy between actual crime statistics and public perception, attributing fears to constant media coverage of negative incidents. He underscores the importance of police presence in restoring confidence among citizens.

5. Mental Health and the Criminal Justice System

A critical analysis is provided on how mental health issues are intertwined with incarceration rates:

• Eric Adams [09:07]: "If you feel they're struggling in school, there's no other opportunity. They go...to jail."

He reveals that a significant percentage of incarcerated individuals suffer from dyslexia or other learning disabilities, advocating for early diagnosis and support to prevent criminal pathways.

6. Bureaucracy and the "Permanent Government"

The episode delves into the challenges posed by longstanding bureaucratic structures that impede progressive changes within the city administration.

• Eric Adams [52:23]: "Permanent government is real. And whoever's trying to act like it's not real, they're lying."

• Andrew Schulz [73:13]: "Why don't we air them out? Why don't politicians air them out?"

Adams argues that entrenched officials with decades-long tenures often resist reforms, slowing down initiatives aimed at improving city operations and services.

7. Relationships with Federal Administrations: Trump and Biden

Mayor Adams discusses his interactions with both President Trump and President Biden, highlighting attempts at collaboration and the obstacles faced.

• Eric Adams [81:26]: "I called the president twice...we had real conversations about the city."

• Eric Adams [85:23]: "Biden pardoned his son...he said the Justice Department has been politicized."

Adams emphasizes his commitment to working with national leaders to secure funding and support for NYC projects, while also critiquing actions he perceives as politically motivated.

8. Rikers Island Closure and Criminal Justice Reforms

A substantial section is dedicated to the future of Rikers Island, NYC's notorious jail facility, and the proposed reforms to address its shortcomings.

• Eric Adams [93:24]: "Rikers Island is New York City's jail system. They want to close it and build four more jails...why don't we build a state-of-the-art psychiatric facility?"

Adams criticizes plans to close Rikers Island without providing adequate alternatives, advocating instead for facilities that address mental health needs rather than merely expanding incarceration capacities.

9. Financial Literacy and Economic Empowerment

Highlighting the importance of financial literacy, Adams outlines initiatives aimed at empowering New Yorkers through education and economic opportunities.

• Eric Adams [85:23]: "We're teaching our young people how to open up bank accounts...dive into the stock exchange."

He proposes programs that integrate financial education from a young age, enabling citizens to engage confidently with the economy and fostering a sense of ownership and participation in the city's financial success.

10. Overcoming Bureaucratic Challenges and Promoting Transparency

The Mayor stresses the necessity of identifying and removing obstructive elements within the bureaucracy to streamline city governance.

• Eric Adams [75:58]: "Identify them, you have to remove them when you can. Replace them with good people that you want."

He advocates for transparency and accountability, aiming to reduce inefficiencies and enhance the effectiveness of city services.

Conclusion: Commitment to New York City and Its People

As the episode nears its end, Eric Adams reaffirms his dedication to NYC, emphasizing resilience and the collective spirit of its residents.

• Eric Adams [81:26]: "If I had to say one thing, what we failed at, we failed to get our success out."

• Eric Adams [86:35]: "We're not going to solve all the problems. But you can't tell me we continue to spend this much money and then have 40% of our children reading and writing at grade level."

Adams concludes by encouraging New Yorkers to recognize and support the city's initiatives aimed at fostering growth, safety, and prosperity, while acknowledging the obstacles posed by both internal bureaucracy and external political forces.

Notable Quotes:

• Eric Adams [00:44]: "Permanent government is real. And whoever's trying to act like it's not real, they're lying."

• Andrew Schulz [00:12]: "So tell us what happened with the migrant crisis."

• Eric Adams [46:49]: "The timing of it. The leaking...they're trying to send a message."

• Eric Adams [19:10]: "We have record decrease in crime, but that means nothing if people don't feel safe."

• Andrew Schulz [73:13]: "Why don't we air them out? Why don't politicians air them out?"

• Eric Adams [85:23]: "We're teaching our young people how to open up bank accounts...dive into the stock exchange."

• Eric Adams [93:24]: "Rikers Island is New York City's jail system. They want to close it and build four more jails...why don't we build a state-of-the-art psychiatric facility?"

This episode offers an in-depth exploration of the multifaceted challenges facing New York City, from systemic governmental issues to immediate social crises. Eric Adams provides a transparent look into his administration's efforts to navigate these complexities, advocating for reforms that prioritize public safety, economic empowerment, and effective governance. For listeners seeking an unvarnished perspective on NYC's leadership and policies, this episode stands out as a crucial discourse.