New York City Mayor Eric Adams has officially withdrawn from his reelection campaign, dramatically reshaping the city’s mayoral race. In a video statement, Adams cited his administration’s achievements in public safety, education, employment, and housing, but said that ongoing media speculation and the campaign finance board’s decision to withhold funds undermined his ability to run a serious campaign.
Adams’ exit opens the door for former Governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa to position themselves as alternatives to Democratic Socialist Zohran Mamdani, who currently leads in the polls. Cuomo praised Adams for putting the city ahead of personal ambition, while Mamdani’s progressive platform has sparked debate among Democrats.
Adams’ political standing was damaged by charges of accepting bribes and foreign donations, though the Justice Department declined to prosecute. In his statement, Adams warned against “chaos” from those seeking to “destroy the system,” a veiled reference to Mamdani.
Congressional leaders have not yet endorsed a candidate in the race.
Source: Washington Times, September 28, 2025