Gov. Hochul Meets with Key Figures to Discuss Adams’ Future
On Tuesday, Governor Kathy Hochul of New York met with prominent New York City leaders to discuss the path forward for Mayor Eric Adams following the Justice Department’s dismissal of bribery, wire fraud, and conspiracy charges against him.
Protests and Concerns
Protesters gathered outside Hochul’s Manhattan office during the meetings, demanding her intervention to remove Adams from office. City Hall sources revealed that Hochul met with the City’s Inability Committee amid mounting pressure to use her constitutional powers.
Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, Comptroller Brad Lander, Rev. Al Sharpton, and other community leaders joined the meeting with Hochul.
Lander, a potential mayoral candidate in 2025, expressed concerns about Adams’ ability to effectively govern given the controversies surrounding his office and the recent resignations of four deputy mayors.
Adams’ Position
Adams has maintained his innocence throughout the legal proceedings, claiming political motivation behind the trial. He has repeatedly insisted that he will not step down, despite the multiple resignations within his administration.
Homan’s Involvement
On Friday, Adams met with Trump’s former border czar, Tom Homan, to discuss immigration issues. Homan’s aggressive comments about holding Adams accountable sparked concerns among city leaders, who questioned Adams’ alignment with their views on immigration.
Hochul’s Perspective
Hochul acknowledged the "troubling" allegations and the resignations of the deputy mayors, which raise "serious questions" about Adams’ ability to lead effectively. She emphasized the weight of her decision to remove a duly-elected mayor, a step that has never been taken in New York State history.
Alleged Conduct in City Hall
Hochul expressed concern over the "alleged conduct" reported in City Hall in recent weeks, which she believes cannot be ignored. She highlighted the importance of upholding ethical standards and ensuring public trust.
Resignation of Deputy Mayors
The resignations of Maria Torres-Springer (First Deputy Mayor), Meera Joshi (Deputy Mayor for Operations), Anne Williams-Isom (Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services), and Chauncey Parker (Deputy Mayor for Public Safety) have left significant gaps in Adams’ governing ability.
Calls for Removal
Protesters and some city leaders continue to call for Adams’ removal from office, arguing that the controversies and resignations have undermined his credibility and ability to lead.
Political Maneuvering Allegations
Commentators have raised concerns that Hochul’s consideration of removing Adams at this juncture may be politically motivated, given the lawsuit filed against her by former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi over immigration policies.
Next Steps
Hochul will continue to deliberate with city leaders and await the outcome of Wednesday’s status conference in the Adams case before making a final decision on his future as mayor.
