Former Deputy Lorraine Grillo, Mayor Eric Adams, is currently supporting the campaign of Andrew Cuomo, Hezoner's biggest rival in the primary race.
Grillo held a fundraiser Wednesday night for the former governor's mayor's comeback bid.
She is the latest Adams ally to abandon him for Cuomo, who leads the candidate pack in the Democratic primary in June.
Meanwhile, in the blow to city council president Adrian Adams' mayoral campaign, sources say Queens Democratic Chairman Gregory Meeks is expected to support Cuomo as early as this weekend.
Former Eric Adams ally, Brooklyn Democratic Chairman Rodney Bicotte and her predecessor, former party leader Frank Cedio, also turned their support into Cuomo.
Grillo previously served as senior adviser to former mayor Bill de Blasio and oversees the pandemic recovery.
She declined to comment, but her husband, Stephen Aielo, confirmed that they are hosting Cuomo's fundraiser at the United Nations Plazapad.
“That's all I can say,” Aiero said.
Cuomo's camp was exciting.
“Lorraine was one of the most capable administrators in the administration of de Blasio and Adams,” attendees said.
The mayor's reelection campaign downplayed the fact that his former top aide was in favor of Cuomo for her former boss.
“There are countless fundraising activities happening around town for candidates from all backgrounds. This is America, and everyone has the right to support those of their choice,” said Todd Shapiro, a spokesman for the Adams campaign.
“That's the beauty of our democracy. Mayor Adams respects the democratic process and the diverse voices that make our city very dynamic. He continues to focus on delivering results to all New Yorkers.”
Meeks, who is also a lawmaker, represents some of the predominantly black neighborhoods in Southeast Queens, the same as Adrienne Adams.
“Meek's support for Cuomo is the writing of the death of Adrian's campaign,” a Democratic insider argued.
The Adrienne Adams campaign declined to comment.
But that was an open secret from the Queens Democrat circle, with Meeks leaning towards Cuomo, a Queens native.
“Andrew won't let him forget that he's a Queens guy. He remains a favorite in many of Queens,” said Sen. John Liu, the second vice-chairman of the Borough's Democrats.
June Bunch, the party's first vice-chairman, said she prefers Adrian Adams.
“I like what she stands and she stands up for her members. I like Cuomo too. He'll be my second choice,” Hollis' Bunch said.
But Bunch said if Meeks supports Cuomo, she will “take the chairman.”
