New York Governor Kathy Hochul met with top city leaders, including Rev. Al Sharpton and City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, on Tuesday as she weighed her options for addressing the growing calls for Mayor Eric Adams’ resignation.
Adams faces federal corruption charges, which were recently dropped by the Trump Justice Department after he was photographed with Tom Homan, the “border czar,” who promised to deport undocumented immigrants if the mayor didn’t comply. Four of his top deputy mayors have since submitted their resignations, citing concerns about Adams’ leadership.
The governor’s decision will determine whether Adams is ousted through a formal process or removed via an inability committee. This panel, created in the 1980s, would convene if a city official is deemed unable to serve due to incapacitation or corruption. To remove Adams, two-thirds of City Council members would need to vote in favor.
Adams’ ally Sharpton believes Hochul will wait for the judge’s decision on Wednesday before making her move. Speaker Adams has called for the mayor’s resignation and is reportedly being recruited to run against Andrew Cuomo if Adams steps down. Lander, a mayoral candidate, urged Adams to provide a plan for maintaining city stability in his absence.
No mayor has ever been removed through either process, but Hochul hinted at taking drastic measures in a statement Monday night. A decision from the governor will be closely watched by New Yorkers, who are demanding accountability and transparency from their government.
Source: https://www.thecity.nyc/2025/02/18/kathy-hochul-firing-eric-adams-decision-trump-corruption