As the nation is preoccupied with a chaotic presidential race and a major debate on the horizon, New York City Mayor Eric Adams finds himself at the center of a mounting influence-peddling scandal that’s raising serious questions about his administration.

This scandal, which has already drawn federal investigators into the homes of two deputy mayors, the city’s police commissioner, and other top officials, threatens to engulf the mayor’s ability to govern effectively.

Federal agents recently raided the residences of high-ranking officials in Adams’ administration, confiscating electronic devices from key figures, including Deputy Mayors Sheena Wright and Philip Banks, as well as Schools Chancellor David Banks. Even NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban has been drawn into the investigation, with reports suggesting he could soon resign.

None of these individuals have been charged with any crimes, but the federal sweep casts a heavy shadow over Adams, who once prided himself on his law-and-order credentials as a former NYPD captain.

Politico reports that this is just the latest in a series of federal probes linked to Adams’ administration, with ongoing investigations reportedly involving the mayor’s connections to Turkey and an aide named Winnie Greco.

It’s unclear whether these are part of a larger investigation or separate inquiries. The scandal has also drawn attention to the Banks family, with David and Philip Banks—both deeply entrenched in Adams’ administration—coming under scrutiny, as well as another brother, Terry Banks, who runs a government relations firm.

The sweeping nature of this investigation has sparked internal concern within City Hall, with some questioning whether the administration can continue to focus on serving the nation’s largest city amid such distractions.

Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol expressed his concerns during a private call, stating, “This is not good,” and warning that the probes could distract city leadership from managing pressing issues.

Meanwhile, Adams has remained tight-lipped about the investigations and has yet to fully back his police commissioner, saying, “I don’t think anything in life is guaranteed,” when asked about Edward Caban’s future. This ambiguous response only adds to the growing sense of uncertainty surrounding his administration.