In light of the recent federal charges facing New York City Mayor Eric Adams, which include five counts, there’s a growing chorus of voices urging him to resign. Notable figures such as City Comptroller Brad Lander and Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez have been particularly vocal. While Adams has publicly stated he has no intention of stepping down, it appears that Public Advocate Jumaane Williams is preparing for the possibility of stepping into the role of acting mayor.
According to the New York City Charter, the Public Advocate is next in line should the mayor resign, followed by the City Comptroller. Historically, only two mayors have resigned: James Walker in 1932 and William O’Dwyer in 1950. It’s worth noting that no governor in New York has ever used their power to remove a sitting mayor.
If Adams chooses to resign or is otherwise removed from office before his term ends, Williams, known for his progressive views, would take over as mayor. Lander would only assume the position if both Adams and Williams were unavailable. City law mandates that the acting mayor has three days to call for a special election, which must occur within 80 days.
Sources from the New York Times reveal that Williams began preparing for this potential transition as far back as last year, engaging in discussions with close associates. This initiative followed the seizure of Adams’s cell phone and other electronic devices in November. It’s been suggested that Williams has consulted with his team, including legal advisors, regarding a possible transition plan.
Williams has expressed skepticism about Adams’s ability to manage the federal investigation, asserting he stands ready to take over if the situation necessitates it. However, he has stopped short of explicitly calling for Adams’s resignation. On the matter of the charges against Adams, Williams stated that they are “broader and more serious than one might imagine,” emphasizing that avoidance of accountability is not a viable response.
If Williams were to become mayor, his agenda would contrast sharply with that of Adams, who is seen as a moderate Democrat with ties to law enforcement and a pro-business approach. Williams, as a committed progressive Democrat, is an outspoken advocate against discriminatory practices and may steer the city toward a significantly different policy direction.
A special election could see a competitive field, with four declared Democratic candidates already eyeing the mayoral position next year. This includes Lander, former Comptroller Scott Stringer, and State Senators Zellnor Myrie and Jessica Ramos, alongside the yet-to-be-announced candidate, former Governor Andrew Cuomo. Cuomo, who resigned last year amid allegations of sexual harassment involving eleven women, is reportedly interested in a political comeback and is contemplating a run for mayor.
Insiders suggest that if Adams resigns, Cuomo will likely enter the race. Last week, he criticized New York City’s political leadership while in Brooklyn, claiming that leaders are “all talk and no action,” and contributing to the city’s current chaos. He emphasized that “government should build, achieve, and enhance lives.”
