Under mounting pressure, New York City Mayor Eric Adams bows out of the mayoral race, reshaping the battle against pro-Hamas socialist Zohran Mamdani, with Andrew Cuomo emerging as the leading challenger.
New York City’s turbulent mayoral race took a dramatic turn Sunday as Mayor Eric Adams announced his withdrawal, a decision aimed at consolidating opposition to far-left, anti-Israel candidate Zohran Mamdani.
Adams, who had been trailing in fourth place behind Mamdani, former Governor Andrew Cuomo, and Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa, released a video message recounting his first-term achievements—crime reduction, housing reforms, and managing the migrant crisis.
“Although we had successes… I know I cannot continue my campaign,” Adams stated, stopping short of endorsing another contender but calling on future leadership to “build on our administration’s progress.”
His exit comes after weeks of political pressure and behind-the-scenes discussions, including reported overtures from President Donald Trump’s administration to offer Adams a federal appointment—a deal that ultimately collapsed.
Adams also acknowledged his earlier indictment on federal corruption charges, which was dismissed this year, admitting it had shaken public trust: “Many are skeptical of me after my historical indictment.”
Despite suspending his campaign, Adams’ name will remain on the ballot for the November 4 election, alongside other independents who have also dropped out.
The new political map favors Andrew Cuomo as the strongest challenger capable of halting Mamdani’s radical rise. Yet, Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa has vowed to stay in the race, risking a split vote that could give Mamdani—who has aligned with socialist, anti-Israel causes—an edge.
Adams’ tenure was marred by scandals and investigations surrounding his aides, even if he himself was not implicated. Still, he signed off with a vow to keep serving New Yorkers: “This will not be the end of my public service. I will keep fighting for our city no matter what because I am a New Yorker.”
The stage is now set for a fierce showdown, with the city’s Jewish community and pro-Israel voters watching closely as the fight to block Mamdani intensifies.
