If Eric Adams is ousted, public defender Jumaane Williams, who is in line to become mayor, is urging Auditor Brad Lander to withdraw his candidacy for mayor. a source told the Post.
Williams has no plans to run against Adams, who was indicted in next year's Democratic mayoral primary, but Lander said he won't give up the mayor's seat without a fight if he loses it by then. It is reported that he has informed his allies, including Mr. Multiple insiders.
“If Jumane runs, there's no chance that Lander will run,” predicted a Democratic campaign official in New York City. “Juman is trying to get him expelled, and I think Brad is starting to understand that he has to leave, even if he's not happy about it.” [aside] If Adams resigns and a special election is held. ”
According to the city charter, the public defender would automatically take over as mayor if Adams resigns or is removed from office. In such a scenario, a bipartisan special election would be called 80 days after Williams' interim nomination to decide who would serve the remainder of Adams' term, which expires at the end of 2025.
Mr. Lander's mayoral campaign is backed by socialists and far-left Democrats, including the Working Families Party, who are loyal to Mr. Williams and would side with the People's Defenders if he ran for mayor, people familiar with the matter said. It is said that it largely depends on the layer.
State Attorney General Tish James has fielded calls from some prominent Democrats to run for mayor, drawing on the same political platform, but officials say it's especially difficult if Williams is interim mayor. , there is a high probability that she will run.
A representative for Mr. Lander did not return messages. However, a spokesperson for Williams said, “The Public Defender is focused on his current role and, as stated above, is prepared to do what is necessary to maintain continuity of government no matter what happens.” “We have completed our work and will continue to work collaboratively with Comptroller Lander.”
Andrew Cuomo, a former Democratic governor, is among a long list of high-profile candidates expected to run for mayor if Adams leaves office early, according to multiple sources.
Mr. Cuomo, who is seeking a return to politics after stepping down in 2021 amid denials of numerous sexual misconduct allegations, is likely to win over much of Mr. Adams' moderate Democratic base. Political observers said if Mr. Cuomo were to run, it would be essential for the far left wing of the party to rally around Mr. Williams, Mr. Lander and Mr. James.
If Lander cancels his mayoral campaign, it is almost a given that he will seek re-election as comptroller in 2025, which would affect several Democratic primaries next year.
For example, Manhattan Borough President Mark Levin and Brooklyn Borough Councilman Justin Brannan are planning to run for comptroller. But officials say that's unlikely if Lander runs.
Adams said he plans to fight pending federal corruption charges and seek reelection for a second term.
