Left-leaning New York City Comptroller Brad Lander plans to challenge Mayor Eric Adams for next year’s Democratic mayoral nomination and has made his intentions clear to major donors, The Washington Post has learned.
Rumors have been circulating in political circles for months that Lander might step down from his post as city treasurer after one term to try to run City Hall in next year’s election.
With Adams’ current poll numbers sagging and progressive state Sen. Zellnor Miley announcing the formation of an exploratory committee for mayor last month, Lander has been rallying support in recent days in support of Adams’ candidacy, the people said.
“He’s running for mayor. He’s been in no uncertain terms,” a donor who asked not to be named told The Washington Post.
The donor added that Lander’s bid would be announced shortly.
A political source close to Lander told The Post that a formal announcement is expected in early July.
Lander has already hired Global Strategy Group to conduct polling for his mayoral race, according to sources, and the group also worked on Lander’s bid for comptroller, polling Gov. Kathy Hockal.
“At this time, Comptroller Lander is seeking re-election and I’m proud to be part of his team,” founder Jeffrey Pollock said, declining to comment on an expected run for mayor.
Politico further reported: Berlin Rosen was hired earlier this week. Provides political consulting.
Lander did not respond to The Washington Post’s request for comment.
“I was a little surprised,” the donor said of Lander’s expected run, adding that he thought the auditor general would wait for the results of a federal investigation into Adams’ last mayoral campaign.
Lander’s run for mayor will lead to a crowded race for auditor, but a key ally of Adams, state Assemblywoman Jennifer Rajkumar, will run for auditor, The Washington Post previously reported.
