Eric Adams drops out of New York City mayoral race
New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced on Wednesday that he is suspending his re-election campaign for the 2025 mayoral race. The decision follows months of federal corruption probes targeting his administration. Democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani has emerged as a frontrunner in the Democratic primary.
Eric Adams, who has served as New York City's mayor since 2022, made the announcement in a video statement posted to social media. 'After much reflection and discussion with my family, I have decided to suspend my campaign for re-election,' Adams said. He cited the ongoing federal investigations as a key factor, noting that they have consumed significant resources and attention.
The probes, initiated by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York, allege that Adams and his associates accepted illegal campaign contributions from foreign entities, including Turkish officials, in exchange for favors such as pressuring the Fire Department to approve a consulate building. Adams has denied wrongdoing, pleading not guilty to the five federal charges against him in September 2024. No trial date has been set.
Adams' exit clears the field in the Democratic primary, where Zohran Mamdani, a state assemblyman from Queens and member of the Democratic Socialists of America, has been polling strongly. Recent surveys show Mamdani leading with around 30% support among likely Democratic voters, up from earlier in the year. 'New York deserves better,' Mamdani said in response to Adams' announcement, emphasizing his platform of affordable housing, public safety reforms, and climate action.
Mamdani's rise has drawn attention from business leaders concerned about his progressive policies. A report from the Manhattan Institute, a conservative think tank, predicts a potential 'exodus' of businesses from New York City if Mamdani wins the mayoralty. Researcher John Burnett warned that policies like rent control expansions and higher taxes on corporations could drive companies to relocate, citing a 15% increase in business departures since 2020. 'New York risks becoming unlivable for entrepreneurs,' Burnett stated.
The mayoral race remains competitive, with other candidates including former Governor Andrew Cuomo and City Comptroller Brad Lander. The Democratic primary is scheduled for June 2025, followed by the general election in November. Adams plans to complete his term, which ends in 2026.