It seems that Eric Adams’ chances of securing a position in Donald Trump’s administration have taken a serious downturn. According to an insider, the president might only consider bringing the New York City mayor on board if GOP candidate Curtis Sliwa bows out of the race.
This speculation grew as talks emerged about whether Adams might meet Trump at a Yankees game. The source noted, “The only way Trump can offer Adams anything is if both Adams and Sliwa step away from the race.”
“Adams’ appeal seems to be lacking at this point. He definitely wants a meeting with Trump, but it’s not like he’s in a position of power here,” the insider added. “Every day that passes makes it less appealing to bring him on board.”
Moreover, the White House is seemingly making a significant error in its approach to the New York City mayoral race, aiming to prevent the election of socialist candidate Zohran Mamdani by setting up a face-off between the former governor Andrew Cuomo and Mamdani, who many consider a more daunting opponent.
Despite this, Adams hasn’t been actively pursuing potential roles related to Trump. Sources indicate he’s heard chatter about job offers from Trump’s circle, but he thinks it wouldn’t make much sense to resign before the election in November.
There’s also at least one offer from the private sector that Adams is considering, linked to a supporter of Cuomo, which is set up in a way that might push him out of the race. “What’s the difference between leaving now or on January 1st?” the source mentioned, reflecting Adams’ line of thought. “He’ll still be on the ballot.”
Trump himself acknowledged that Cuomo is, at best, a “long shot” candidate as polls suggest Mamdani would outperform him in a direct contest. On a recent show, he expressed doubt about Adams’ chances, even suggesting that he might withdraw despite some involvement in addressing issues surrounding federal corruption accusations against another candidate.
“I’ve read that he might not be in for the long haul,” Trump said. “I think people might not realize how serious this is… We could be looking at a communist mayor in New York.”
While Adams publicly insists he’s in it to win it, behind the scenes, his campaign seems to be assessing votes and gauging his actual chances. Recently, he conveyed a different tone in a private meeting with city leaders, something his campaign spokesperson, Todd Shapiro, later downplayed, denying that he signaled a departure from the race.
Sliwa, on the other hand, remains firm in his decision not to withdraw. A recent survey showed Adams with around 7% support, while Mamdani commanded over 43%, and Cuomo followed with 28% and Sliwa at 10%.
The possibility of Adams being appointed to roles like the ambassadorship to Saudi Arabia is hindered by political operatives who worry his continuing candidacy could help Mamdani ascend to power, as they try to orchestrate a contest that directly pits Mamdani against Cuomo.
Yet, those strategizing this approach may not fully grasp the complexities Adams faces in stepping back from the race before the November elections.
The voting is scheduled to finalize on Tuesday. “It’s a bit confusing,” said a source close to the situation. “There are powerful figures involved who really only pay attention to New York City politics for a few months every four years.”
– Additional report by Matthew Fischetti
