Adams Withdraws from New York Mayoral Reelection Bid
Democratic Progressive Newcomer Mamdani Now a Strong Contender
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| Eric Adams, Mayor of New York City [AFP] |
‘[Herald Economy = Kim Ji-heon] Eric Adams, Mayor of New York City, announced his decision to withdraw from the mayoral reelection race on the 28th (local time).’
‘In a video posted on his X account (formerly Twitter), Adams stated, “Despite all our achievements, I cannot continue with the reelection campaign.” He further explained, “The ongoing media speculation about my future and the Election Finance Commission’s decision to withhold millions of dollars have weakened my fundraising ability.”’
‘Having been elected as a Democrat in 2021 and serving since January of the following year, Adams will step down at the end of his first term early next year. His mid-term withdrawal as an independent candidate was somewhat anticipated.’
‘With the Democratic candidate, the “progressive newcomer” Zoran Mamdani, strongly favored in the upcoming November election, neither Andrew Cuomo, former New York Governor, running as an independent, nor Republican Curtis Sliwa has emerged as a clear contender against Mamdani. This is partly due to the continuous pressure for withdrawal exerted on Adams by Cuomo’s camp.’
‘Donald Trump, former U.S. President, who has criticized Mamdani as a “communist,” has also emphasized the need for a “united front against Mamdani” in favor of Cuomo.’
‘On the 4th, Trump remarked that a one-on-one race is essential to avoid defeat, suggesting that if two candidates withdrew to create a direct contest, Mamdani could be defeated, according to an AP report.’
‘There have also been reports of Steve Witkoff, Trump’s key aide and Middle East envoy, holding a secret meeting with Adams in Florida, suggesting a potential ambassadorial position in a Middle Eastern country for Adams.’
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| Donald Trump, Former U.S. President [Reuters] |
‘Adams’ withdrawal is expected to impact the current election dynamics, where Mamdani holds a significant lead.’
‘According to a poll conducted by The New York Times and Siena College from the 2nd to the 6th, surveying 1,284 registered New York voters, Mamdani leads the multi-candidate race with 46% support, followed by Cuomo at 24%, Sliwa at 15%, and Adams at 9%.’
‘However, in a hypothetical head-to-head matchup between Mamdani and Cuomo, among likely voters, support stands at 48% for Mamdani and 44% for Cuomo, indicating a close contest.’
‘In a phone interview with Reuters, Trump welcomed Adams’ withdrawal, predicting that Adams’ votes will go to Cuomo.’
‘Within Trump’s administration, there are known efforts to persuade Sliwa to withdraw by offering a public office position, but Sliwa remains committed to completing his campaign.’