NEW YORK (AP) — New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced the end of his challenging reelection campaign on Sunday, highlighting a decline in his credibility amid a year filled with scandals and political strife. In a video message shared on social media, Adams reflected on his accomplishments as mayor but acknowledged that a federal corruption case had left voters skeptical of his candidacy, making it difficult to fund a legitimate campaign.
“Despite all we’ve achieved, I cannot continue my reelection campaign,” he stated. Adams opted not to endorse any remaining candidates but warned of “insidious forces” utilizing local governance to promote divisive agendas. He urged New Yorkers to choose their leaders based on proven actions rather than promises.
Adams’ departure from the race may bolster the campaign of former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who has positioned himself as a centrist candidate capable of defeating the Democratic Party’s nominee, state Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani. However, there is uncertainty regarding whether Adams’ supporters will gravitate toward Cuomo in significant numbers.
Should Mamdani be elected, he would become the youngest and most progressive mayor in generations, having decisively defeated Cuomo in the Democratic primary through a platform focused on reducing living costs in New York City. In light of Adams’ announcement, Mamdani criticized Cuomo, stating, “New York deserves better than trading in one disgraced, corrupt politician for another.” He called for a political shift toward a government that New Yorkers can be proud of.
Cuomo responded positively to Adams’ decision, commending him for prioritizing New York City’s needs above personal ambition. He labeled the Democratic candidates as “destructive extremist forces” threatening to harm the city through incompetence or ignorance. Republican Curtis Sliwa remains in the race, but his campaign has faced challenges, including criticism from former President Donald Trump, who recently referred to him as “not exactly prime time.”
Adams’ announcement comes amidst a backdrop of speculation regarding his viability as a candidate, fueled by ongoing corruption probes and dissatisfaction among progressive voters, particularly due to his relationship with Trump. His campaign, which initially focused on public safety and revitalizing a city recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, suffered from scrutiny and low polling figures. A couple of recent polls conducted by The New York Times and Siena University indicated a substantial lead for Mamdani over both Cuomo and Adams.
The Quinnipiac poll illustrated the possibility of a closer race if Adams dropped out; however, Sliwa firmly declared that he would not withdraw from the contest. Furthermore, discussions had reportedly taken place around encouraging Adams to exit the race through an employment offer from the government.
Adams, 65, is the city's second Black mayor, having previously served as a New York City police captain and Brooklyn borough president. He took office in 2022 with promises to address crime and rejuvenate the city. Although crime rates are currently reported to have decreased, the ongoing scandals have overshadowed his tenure. In a remarkable series of events, several top officials in his administration faced resignations amid federal investigations, although none have been indicted.
In late September, federal authorities charged Adams with fraud and bribery, alleging that he accepted illegal campaign donations and travel perks in exchange for expedited diplomatic arrangements. Although he denied any wrongdoing, his campaign was significantly hindered by these developments.
In the wake of Adams' announcement, New York Governor Kathy Hochul expressed her support for Mamdani, stating that her collaboration with Adams over the past four years had improved the city. This sentiment underscores the shifting political landscape in New York City, where leadership and accountability are increasingly at the forefront of voter considerations.
