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NY officials scramble over possibility of removing Mayor Eric Adams from office: sources

ny-officials-scramble-over-possibility-of-removing-mayor-eric-adams-from-office:-sources
NY officials scramble over possibility of removing Mayor Eric Adams from office: sources

New York State officials are scrambling to figure out how exactly they can legally remove a sitting mayor — as details from the bombshell federal indictment of Eric Adams emerge, The Post has learned.

The sprint to outline a blueprint on how to oust a mayor — a rarely used power by New York’s governor — comes amid fears that Adams will defy increasingly deafening calls for his resignation.

If Adams digs in his heels, he could put Gov. Kathy Hochul in uncharted territory as the mayor of the nation’s largest city fights criminal charges accusing him of taking bribes from foreign nationals and defrauding taxpayers of $10 million.

Attorney Alex Spiro in a gray suit and red and white striped tie, representing NYC Mayor Eric Adams, speaking to the media outside Gracie Mansion

New York State officials are working on a plan to legally remove Mayor Adams from office after he was indicted on corruption charges. James Messerschmidt

A spokesperson for Hochul didn’t deny that state officials are reviewing obscure legal code detailing how to remove a mayor from office, but downplayed its significance.

“Of course, the counsel’s office would be prepared to present to the governor on any possible legal scenario related to this matter,” the spokesperson said. “But as the governor has made clear, she is reviewing the details made public this morning and it would be inappropriate to make any further comment at this time.”

New York City’s mayor can be removed from office by the governor “upon charges,” and provided he or she is given an opportunity to present a defense, according to the city charter.


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Hochul, during a Thursday morning appearance, pledged to address the charges against Adams later in the day.

When asked how her experience under former Gov. Andrew Cuomo during his resignation affected her decision-making, she said it was important to maintain the confidence of rightfully anxious New Yorkers.

Adams leaving Gracie Mansion with his attorney Alex Spiro (center left) on Sept. 26, 2024.

Adams leaving Gracie Mansion with his attorney Alex Spiro (center left) on Sept. 26, 2024. James Messerschmidt

“I know this, and anything I can do as the leader of this great state to assure them that they are in good hands, we will make sure we get through this,” she said. “It is shocking.”


Stay updated with the New York Post’s coverage of Mayor Eric Adams’ indictment


Other state officials are preparing to do business with a potential new mayor of New York City, sources also said.

Some state officials over recent days have already been telling staff to prepare to work with a new administration, another source said.

NY State Governor Kathy Hochul

According to the city charter, Gov. Kathy Hochul can remove Adams from office “upon charges” if he is allowed to present a defense. James Messerschmidt

Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, a lefty Democrat, would take over as mayor if Adams is ousted or resigns.

Adams vowed during a rally in front of Gracie Mansion to continue as mayor and said his “day-to-day” will not change, despite the unprecedented situation of being a sitting New York City mayor fighting criminal charges.

He cast the indictment as the product of an overzealous Department of Justice.

New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams debates in the race for governor at the studios of WNBC4-TV June 16, 2022 in New York City.

Public Advocate Jumaane Williams would take over as mayor if Adams resigns or is ousted. Getty Images

“I think you should ask the federal investigators and prosecutors who gave the directives to take actions that we are witnessing right now,” he said.

Hizzoner’s rally ended with protesters chanting “Resign!”

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