New York City’s political landscape was jolted this week as Mayor Eric Adams, fresh off a year of legal drama and high-profile resignations, threw his support behind former Governor Andrew Cuomo in the city’s heated mayoral race. The move has sparked fierce debate and drawn sharp criticism from progressive leaders, highlighting the deep divisions within the city’s Democratic establishment.
Adams Endorses Cuomo, Ignites Political Firestorm
In a surprise announcement,
Eric Adams publicly endorsed Andrew Cuomo, who is mounting a comeback bid for City Hall after losing the Democratic primary to Zohran Mamdani. Cuomo, running on a third-party line, has been aggressively attacking Mamdani, the current frontrunner, while Adams’ endorsement is seen as a major boost to Cuomo’s campaign.
Mamdani wasted no time in blasting both Adams and Cuomo, linking them to what he called “the same broken politics” and drawing connections to the Trump administration. “We also know that this is the art of the deal. We have a president of this country who has spoken publicly of his desire for Eric Adams to drop out of the race. Eric Adams dropped out. [He has] spoken of his desire for candidates to consolidate behind Andrew Cuomo. Today, Eric Adams is endorsing Andrew Cuomo,” Mamdani told reporters.
Legal Troubles and Administration Shakeups
Adams’ endorsement comes on the heels of a turbulent year marked by
federal investigations, indictments, and a wave of resignations among his closest advisers. In September 2024, the FBI searched the homes of two deputy mayors—Sheena Wright and Phil Banks—seizing electronics as part of a sweeping probe. The investigation also led to subpoenas for several high-ranking NYPD officials and close Adams confidants.
Adams himself was indicted on bribery charges, but the Department of Justice dismissed the case in the spring of 2025, prompting several career federal prosecutors to resign in protest. Throughout the ordeal, Adams maintained his innocence, pleaded not guilty, and refused to step down despite mounting pressure.
The fallout continued as key members of Adams’ administration resigned, including Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Phil Banks III and Schools Chancellor David Banks. Mohamed Bahi, a senior City Hall official, was arrested on charges of witness tampering and destruction of evidence related to the federal investigation into Adams’ 2021 campaign fundraising.
Housing Initiatives Amid Controversy
Despite the ongoing controversies, Adams has continued to tout his administration’s achievements. In late September 2025, he announced progress on creating nearly 10,000 new homes on city-owned sites, emphasizing his commitment to addressing New York’s housing crisis. However, critics argue that the mayor’s legal troubles and political maneuvering have overshadowed his policy agenda.
What’s Next for Adams and NYC?
With Adams now backing Cuomo and stepping away from the race, the mayoral contest has become a high-stakes showdown between Cuomo and Mamdani. The endorsement has further polarized the electorate, with progressives rallying behind Mamdani and establishment figures coalescing around Cuomo.
Political analysts say Adams’ move could reshape the city’s power dynamics for years to come. As the investigation fallout lingers and the city heads toward a pivotal election, all eyes are on how New Yorkers will respond to this latest twist in the city’s political saga.
Key Takeaways:- Adams’ endorsement of Cuomo signals a major realignment in NYC politics.
- The mayor’s administration has been rocked by federal probes and high-profile resignations.
- Housing initiatives continue, but are overshadowed by ongoing controversies.
- The upcoming mayoral election is set to be one of the most contentious in recent memory.
Sources
1. News - NYC Mayor's Office
2. Adams backs Cuomo in NYC mayor's race, Mamdani ...
3. New York City Mayor Eric Adams' federal probe - ABC News
4. Welcome to the Mayor's Office
5. Transcript: Mayor Adams Announces Progress Creating ...
