A federal judge has tossed Mayor Eric Adams’ lawsuit seeking to overrule the Campaign Finance Board’s decision to withhold millions of dollars in matching funds for his re-election bid.
Although a defeat legally, the ruling could prove to be a boon for Hizzoner’s independent bid for mayor — with the Brooklyn judge slapping down the board’s ability to reference his now-dismissed historic indictment as cause for withholding funds.
“The Board’s attempt to shift the burden of proving his innocence to Mayor Adams is inappropriate and goes against the centuries-old American legal principle that presumes the criminal defendant’s innocence until proven guilty,” wrote Judge Nicholas Garaufis.
Adams was denied taxpayer-funded matching funds for his re-election run back in December, while battling a criminal indictment for allegedly accepting bribes in the form of campaign donations and free or heavily discounted travel perks in exchange for political favors.
That case was tossed after months of Adams cozying up to President Trump and those in his orbit.
Judge Dale Ho noted in his dismissal that he did not rule on the merits of the case.
The CFB has continued to cite the indictment as part of the basis for withholding funds, saying there was “reason to believe” wrongdoing had occurred.
However, the latest ruling limits the board from denying funds without proof of guilt as unconstitutional.
The ruling Friday now only requires the campaign to properly respond to the board for inquiries and have paperwork in on time to get matching funds.
“We are grateful for the Court’s thoughtful decision, and knew all along that CFB’s “reason to know” standard as applied here, was arbitrary and unconstitutional,” said Adams campaign chair Frank Carone.
“We are confident now that Mayor Adams will receive matching funds and therefore be in a position to bring his record of success for working-class New Yorkers and their families for the general election this November 4th!”
The board’s next meeting is set for July 15, where they are expected to vote on Adams’ matching funds.
A spokesperson for the CFB said the board will review the ruling.
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