New York, NY — September 27, 2024 — New York City Mayor Eric Adams is under mounting pressure to resign as divisions grow between New York Democrats as tensions inside the party sharpen.
A succession of furious voices calling on him to resign continues to sweep through the ranks as scandals and other scandals further chip away at his ground and the possibility of running for a leadership position for the Democratic Party within America’s largest city.
The most recent flap revolves around allegations of unethical conduct in the areas of confidential advisors and campaign funds, which have spawned numerous separate probes. The charges have tarnished Adams’ public image and have attracted sharp criticism from the rest of the Democrats-many of whom are increasingly nervous about the political fallout as the 2025 mayoral elections start to draw near.
According to reports, a faction of the prominent New York Democrats-the city council members and state lawmakers-have been secretly meeting up to discuss their next step. Internal discussions among those familiar with such talks reveal that some members floated urging Adams to quit to avoid further damage to the party’s reputation and a smoother transition of power.
“There is a sense of urgency to restore trust and integrity to the office of the mayor,” said a high-ranking party official, who spoke only on condition of anonymity. “We must show New Yorkers that we are committed to transparent and accountable leadership.”
Some named possibilities include City Comptroller Brad Lander and Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, both sharp critics of Adams’ handling of recent crises, including the long-standing housing crisis and the city’s response to climate change. Then there are Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso and a few state legislators with a stronger base of support within the party.
Adams ran for the first time in 2021 based on policies of public safety and economic recovery; during this period, violent crime, economic instability, and strained labor relations were issues he had to face. His combative and intransigent leadership style is seen as pushing some of his allies away and sparking calls for change.
Adams dismissed the calls with a brief statement Thursday, calling it “political theater,” then reaffirming his commitment to service for the people of New York City. “I was elected to lead and that’s exactly what I’m going to keep doing,” he said.
As the stakes are built, the next couple of weeks may be crucial for Adams and the Democratic Party’s strategy in New York. The eventual outcome will be no small test of the party’s cohesion and its ability to chart a smooth transition.
