On Sunday, Mayor Eric Adams revealed he will withdraw from his re-election campaign. This surprising announcement confirms Adams will complete only one term as New York City’s mayor, altering the landscape of the 2025 election dramatically.
Adams Points to Funding Woes and Press Criticism
Adams shared the news in an eight-minute video filmed at Gracie Mansion. In his address, he stated he would be suspending his independent campaign, blaming the city’s Campaign Finance Board’s refusal to grant millions in matching funds and what he called ongoing negative media attention.
“Despite what we’ve accomplished, I am unable to pursue re-election,” Adams said.
With a picture of his late mother nearby, Adams looked back on his administration, citing progress in housing, reductions in murders and shootings, and a comeback from COVID-19’s economic challenges.
“The continued press discussion about my future and the board’s decision to cut funding have made it impossible to mount a viable campaign,” Adams remarked.
This move comes after months of low poll numbers, with Adams struggling to recover from earlier corruption accusations, even after being cleared.
Mamdani, Cuomo, and Sliwa Now Dominate Field
Now that Adams has exited, the remaining top candidates include Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani, Republican Curtis Sliwa, and former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, running independently. Mamdani holds a polling lead but lacks outright majority, leaving room for other candidates to influence the outcome.
Adams did not back any candidate, instead warning of “chaos” from sweeping free-service promises—a direct jab at Mamdani. Cuomo faces criticism for alleged undisclosed coordination with Trump’s team, which he has denied.
Sliwa argues that only he can beat Mamdani, and accuses Cuomo’s supporters of offering bribes for him to exit the race, claims that Cuomo rejects.
Mamdani swiftly commented on Adams’ decision, stating, “New York is entitled to more than swapping one disgraced politician for another,” linking Adams’ exit to Cuomo and Trump.
Adams’ Short-Lived Tenure
As the city’s second Black mayor, Adams assumed office in 2022, vowing to boost safety and affordability. His tenure, like that of David Dinkins, now ends after a single term.
“Being your mayor has been a true honor,” Adams stated. “We turned our historic victory four years ago into meaningful change for those most in need.”
While Adams lists his achievements in housing, crime-fighting, and pandemic recovery, his approval ratings never rebounded. Many residents remained unconvinced that life improved under his leadership.
What the Future Holds for Adams and the Mayoral Race
Although Adams is suspending his run, his name stays on the November 4 ballot, since the window for removal has closed. His lingering presence may pull a few votes, but most experts tip Cuomo to gain the most from Adams’ departure.
Adams hasn’t announced any future plans. He urged voters to select candidates based on results, not rhetoric.
With about six weeks left, the race focuses on Mamdani, Cuomo, and Sliwa in a high-stakes contest poised to influence the city’s political direction for years ahead.
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