Adams’ Unusual Transition Tactics for Mamdani

Former New York City Mayor Eric Adams appears to be making things quite tricky for his successor, Zoran Mamdani. Unlike many former mayors, Adams seems determined to complicate Mamdani’s transition.

Just hours before he left office at the end of the year, Adams set up a legally protected committee called Politico, filled with his supporters. This committee is expected to tackle “voting issues related to open primaries,” which could potentially hinder Mamdani’s chances for a second term.

Richard Briffault, a government expert from Columbia Law School, expressed his concerns, saying, “This would create a system of mayors that could potentially compete with the incumbent mayor, which seems like a very stupid and petty thing to do. This is purely hostile.”

In what seems more than just a parting gesture, Adams also altered media eligibility rules and appointed a pro-police figure to a committee responsible for investigating possible misconduct within the NYPD. He even designated green spaces at work sites, seemingly ensuring that Mamdani would struggle to create affordable housing for seniors.

It’s worth noting that typically, outgoing mayors keep a respectful distance from new administrations. However, Adams has notably criticized Mamdani, which is quite a departure from the norm.

Grace Lau, the executive director of Citizens Union, voiced her concerns. “What we’re seeing here is dramatic and concerning, particularly the creation of a commission that undermines the city charter revision process. This feels like a cynical move by an outgoing mayor who has lost the trust of New Yorkers.”

With his new role, Mamdani faces significant challenges as he tries to deliver on the promises made during his election campaign. Local political maneuvering could complicate things even further.

While these actions from Adams could be seen as sneaky, I have to admit, there’s a part of me that finds it intriguing.