Eric Adams Launches Independent Campaign in NYC

New York City’s mayor, Eric Adams, kicked off his independent campaign for reelection on Thursday, just after Democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani claimed victory in the Democratic primary.

Adams had previously hinted at running as an independent on April 3, 2025, following the dismissal of a federal bribery and fraud case against him. In a six-minute video, he shared his decision to exit the Democratic primary and focus on the general election.

He reaffirmed his campaign at a City Hall event after former governor Andrew Cuomo acknowledged Mamdani’s significant lead.

Mamdani has promised to implement a rent freeze for stabilized units, provide free public transportation, establish city-owned grocery stores, and raise the minimum wage to $30 an hour. Rent stabilization units typically offer much lower prices compared to market rates.

“I fight for everyday New Yorkers who just want to work for their towns,” Adams declared.

“I’ll choose between a blue-collar candidate or a silver spoon candidate,” he said, referring to Mamdani. “I’m not interested in slogans. I care about solutions. I don’t work with special interests; I work for the people.”

During his speech, Adams addressed over a hundred supporters, though a few hecklers were also present in the crowd.

“Critics often focus more on making attacks than on achieving anything. They’ve got a record of tweets; I have a record of results,” he remarked. “This is a city, not socialism. Providing everything for free lacks dignity. True dignity comes from offering work and opportunities for families.”

In his announcement, he highlighted his management of the city’s immigrant housing crisis and noted decreases in crime rates during his tenure. On a recent episode of Fox and Friends, he labeled Mamdani a “Snake Oil Salesman,” suggesting he would say anything to be elected.

“He sells things to people who are struggling,” Adams added.

He also clarified that he is choosing to run as an independent instead of a Republican, despite speculation, particularly after the Justice Department dropped a corruption case linked to him that began under the Biden administration.

Some believe that former President Biden began targeting Adams after he publicly criticized Biden’s immigration policies.

“When the federal government did nothing as our shelter system struggled due to a flawed immigration policy, I prioritized New Yorkers over party politics. I knew stepping out on this would make me a target,” Adams stated.