Staff Reports
New York City Mayor Eric Adams traveled to Santo Domingo this week to pay his respects at the site of the Jet Set nightclub collapse, a tragedy that has claimed at least 231 lives and left the Dominican and New York communities in mourning. Adams, visibly emotional as he toured the ruins and met with grieving families, underscored the deep ties between New York City and the Dominican Republic—a relationship built on shared values of faith, family, and resilience. With nearly 700,000 Dominicans calling New York home, the mayor’s visit was a powerful gesture of solidarity at a time when both cities are grappling with the aftermath of this horrific event.
The collapse, which occurred during a packed merengue concert, has sent shockwaves through the Dominican community worldwide. Among the victims were New Yorkers and Americans visiting family, highlighting the interconnectedness of our cities. Adams, accompanied by local officials and New York’s Dominican leaders, laid a wreath at the memorial and attended a Mass for the victims. He reminded the world that behind every statistic is a real person, a family, and a community left to pick up the pieces.
But Adams’ trip was not without political undertones. With his approval ratings at historic lows and his decision to run for reelection as an independent after a bruising corruption scandal, the mayor is keenly aware of the importance of the Dominican vote in New York City. His administration’s tough-on-crime stance and calls for the removal of criminal illegal aliens have alienated some on the left, but have resonated with many working-class and immigrant families who want safer streets and stronger communities. Adams’ presence in Santo Domingo was as much about healing as it was about reminding voters of his commitment to public safety and law and order.
The tragedy has also exposed the failures of local governance and the need for accountability. As lawsuits mount against the nightclub’s owners and questions swirl about building safety and oversight, Adams’ call for “more effective supervision” and “rigor in compliance with the rules” should serve as a wake-up call for leaders on both sides of the border. Too often, politicians are quick to offer thoughts and prayers but slow to enact real reforms that protect their citizens. The Dominican government’s decision to cancel Holy Week festivities and launch a full investigation is a step in the right direction, but more must be done to ensure such a disaster never happens again.
Ultimately, Adams’ visit was a reminder that leadership means showing up in times of crisis, not just when it’s politically convenient. While critics may question his motives, the mayor’s actions in the Dominican Republic reflect a willingness to stand with grieving families and demand accountability. In an era when too many politicians are afraid to take tough stands or risk offending special interests, Adams’ focus on public safety and community ties is exactly what New York—and America—needs.
