NY Mayor Eric Adams Faces Tough Reelection Battle Despite Dropped Charges

NEW YORK, (February 12,2025) – New York Mayor Eric Adams may have avoided a criminal trial, but political analysts warn that the corruption allegations against him could still damage his reelection prospects.

On Monday, the Justice Department directed federal prosecutors to drop a five-count indictment against Adams, which had accused him of accepting illegal campaign donations in exchange for political favors. Adams, who had pleaded not guilty and was set to face trial in April, called the case “an unnecessary ordeal” during a livestreamed address on Tuesday, urging New Yorkers to move forward.

Despite this legal victory, polls indicate Adams is struggling in the upcoming June Democratic primary, where a growing number of challengers have emerged. A survey by Bold Decision found that 73% of likely primary voters held an “unfavorable” view of Adams, with crime and quality of life concerns shaping public dissatisfaction.

Among his challengers are five progressive Democrats, including State Senators Zellnor Myrie and Jessica Ramos, City Comptroller Brad Lander, and former Comptroller Scott Stringer. However, former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who has not officially entered the race, appears to be the strongest potential contender. A Honan Strategy Group poll conducted in late January showed Cuomo leading with 35% support, while Adams and other candidates lagged in single digits.

Cuomo, who resigned in 2021 amid sexual harassment allegations he denies, has strong name recognition but remains a divisive figure. Some analysts suggest his past controversies could resurface as a major campaign issue. Meanwhile, Adams is expected to highlight his ability to work with Republican President Donald Trump—particularly on immigration—contrasting himself with Cuomo, a vocal Trump critic.

While Adams may not face immediate legal consequences, the Justice Department’s directive did not fully exonerate him. The case remains open for review after the election, and federal prosecutors have been instructed not to take further investigative steps until then. Some, including State Senator Myrie, have criticized the decision as politically motivated and called for a special prosecutor.

With months to go before the primary, political experts caution that the race remains fluid. “In politics, you are not dead until you are literally dead,” said Christina Greer, a Fordham University political science professor, emphasizing that Adams still has time to recover. However, with Cuomo’s potential candidacy looming and voter dissatisfaction high, the road to reelection remains steep.

Source: Reuters